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Ingredients
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Pasta
Vodka Sauce
Garnish
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 1
Boil Water
In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a generous pinch of salt.
- 2
Cook Pasta
Add the lumache pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- 3
Drain Pasta
Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Making Vodka Sauce
- 4
Heat Olive Oil
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- 5
Sauté Garlic
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- 6
Add Crushed Tomatoes
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- 7
Add Vodka
Pour in the vodka and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.
- 8
Add Cream and Seasonings
Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- 9
Add Fresh Basil
Stir in the chopped fresh basil before combining with the pasta.
Combining and Serving
- 10
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained lumache pasta to the vodka sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.
- 11
Plate and Garnish
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with grated pecorino cheese on top.