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Ingredients
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Pasta
Spicy Vodka Sauce
Topping
Method
Pasta Preparation
- 1
Cook the Fusili
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fusili pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 2
Drain the Pasta
Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water.
Spicy Vodka Sauce
- 3
Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- 4
Add Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- 5
Combine Tomatoes
Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 6
Finish with Cream
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix until fully incorporated and the sauce is creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- 7
Add Fresh Basil
Stir in the chopped fresh basil just before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine and Serve
- 8
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained fusili pasta to the skillet with the spicy vodka sauce. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- 9
Plate the Dish
Serve the pasta on plates or in bowls. Top with generous dollops of stracciatella cheese.
- 10
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with additional chopped basil or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately.