Low Sodium Penne alla Vodka

Indulge in the classic comfort of Penne alla Vodka with a heart-smart twist in this Low Sodium Penne alla Vodka recipe. Perfect for those watching their salt intake, this luscious dish combines whole wheat penne (if preferred) with a velvety, no-salt-added tomato and cream sauce. The rich flavors are enhanced by a delicate sauté of onions, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes, while vodka adds depth and complexity. Finished with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and fresh basil, this 30-minute, one-skillet wonder is as quick as it is satisfying. Ideal for busy weeknights or an elevated yet wholesome meal, this low-sodium pasta recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and healthier cooking.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta, whole wheat if preferred
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 0.5 cup vodka
• 15 ounces no salt added tomato sauce
• 0.75 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter with the olive oil.

Step 3

Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5

Pour the vodka into the skillet and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off.

Step 6

Stir in the no salt added tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.

Step 8

Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 9

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporate the chopped basil leaves.

Step 10

Season with ground black pepper to taste.

Step 11

Serve hot, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1326.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2800.7

Total Fat 120.4g	0%
Saturated Fat 61.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.3g
Cholesterol 282mg	0%
Sodium 804.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 301.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 30.9g	0%
Total Sugars 32.0g
Protein 70.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 680.0mg	0%
Iron 18.7mg	0%
Potassium 2554.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 42.2%

Protein: 11.0%

Carbs: 46.9%