Kicked-up Penne A La Vodka

1. In a food processor, chop the sundried tomatoes until small pieces.
Pour boiling water over the tomatoes and let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet.
3. Add the onion and let cook until tender (3 minutes), turn to medium-low heat.
4. Then, add the minced garlic, sundried tomatoes and their water, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, white pepper, and cayenne pepper.
5. Let cook, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes, until all the water has boiled out.
6. Meanwhile, make the penne according to package directions and drain.
7. After the sundried tomato water has boiled out, transfer the mixture back into the food processor and add the half and half.
8. Puree the mixture for about 2 minutes.
9. Then, add the vodka and return to the skillet.
10. Stir well and let the mixture simmer on low for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
11. After ten minutes, add the pasta to the skillet, tossing until the pasta is well-combined with the sauce.
Serve immediately. Optional: Sprinkle with parmesan cheese, before serving, if desired.

Chef's Note & Story

My boyfriend loves spicy food; I don't. So when he said we should make Penne a la Vodka together, I was excited! He then qualified he wanted to make a "crazy" version of Penne a la Vodka. In the end, we did what good couples do best, and we compromised. This recipe is spicy, but not over the top. It's also a fast and easy dinner that can get on your table and feed your family in only 30 minutes!