Penne Vodka

Yes, this is the same dish you can get at your favorite Italian restaurant. And yes, it's full of butter and cream and cheese and alcohol, so you want to go easy and not stuff your face. But the great thing about it? Since it's basically a fancy mac and cheese, your kids will love it.

This pairs nicely with the Sweet Tart salad (below), especially if you use white balsamic vinegar for the salad dressing. And be sure to buy a loaf of crusty bread to sop up the leftover sauce--because, you know, this dish doesn't have enough carbs as it is . . .

Penne Vodka

1 lb penne or a similar pasta (the kids may prefer bow ties or rigatoni)

1 stick of butter (Yes: butter. Don't mess this up with margarine)

3/4 cup vodka

1/2-3/4 teaspoon hot pepper flakes

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup canned tomatoes, drained

3/4 cup grated Parmesan

1 teaspoon salt

1. Cook the pasta according to directions. I like to leave it a little al dente. Whatever you do, don't overcook.
2. Melt the butter in a dutch oven or other large pan.
3. Add the vodka and the pepper flakes. Simmer for three minutes, or until just before your nose hairs don't curl when you put your head over the pot for a wiff. (You think I'm kidding, but I'm not . . . )
4. Add the tomatoes and cream and simmer for five or so minutes.  Stir frequently to keep the items from separating too much.  
5. Add the salt.
6. Drain the pasta really well, and add it to the pan.
7. Lower the heat and add the Parmesan. Mix.
8. Turn off the heat and serve.

Family Ratings:

Will, who's loathe to give his father any positive reinforcement: 8

Lucy (oh my god, are you kidding?): 10

Jamie: 10

Ellen who's still skinny after all these years: 8

Paul, who's not: 10