Low Sodium Penne with Vodka Sauce
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of this *Low Sodium Penne with Vodka Sauce*, a heart-healthy twist on a classic Italian favorite. Made with whole wheat penne pasta and a luscious, unsalted tomato vodka sauce infused with fresh garlic, onion, and a hint of crushed red pepper, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between savory and light. The dish is finished with heavy cream for a velvety texture and brightened with fresh basil and parsley, creating a restaurant-quality meal in just 45 minutes. With no added salt and a simple ingredient list, this low-sodium recipe is perfect for anyone watching their sodium intake without compromising flavor. Serve this wholesome pasta dish as a satisfying dinner, and pair it with a crisp salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal that's as nutritious as it is delicious!
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Ingredients
- 12 ounces whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes, unsalted
- 1 cup vodka
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.25 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 0.25 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 0.5 cup unsalted pasta cooking water
Directions
Step 1
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it is translucent.
Step 3
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vodka. Stir well to combine.
Step 5
Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the alcohol in the vodka to evaporate and the flavors to meld.
Step 6
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the heavy cream to the tomato mixture, stirring continuously to create a creamy sauce.
Step 7
Add the crushed red pepper flakes and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as necessary; remember to keep it low sodium by not adding any salt.
Step 8
Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta until well coated with the vodka sauce. Use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce as needed.
Step 9
Remove from heat and toss in the fresh basil and parsley.
Step 10
Serve the pasta immediately while hot, garnished with additional basil or parsley if desired.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1999.5g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 3086.5 |
| Total Fat 115.8g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 52.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g | |
| Cholesterol 240mg | 0% |
| Sodium 193.2mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 299.6g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 39.8g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 41.0g | |
| Protein 54.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 467.2mg | 0% |
| Iron 23.1mg | 0% |
| Potassium 3844.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories