
Vodka Sauce
Vodka sauce is a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce made vibrant with a splash of vodka. Its rosy hue comes from the combination of tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and heavy cream. The vodka enhances the other flavors, adding a subtle edge and acidity that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes and the richness of the cream. This versatile pasta sauce offers a smooth, velvety texture and a distinctive, slightly tangy flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. The sauce is cooked until it thickens slightly, resulting in a luscious coating for pasta.
Common Uses
- Used as a classic pasta sauce: Toss with penne, rigatoni, or other pasta shapes for a quick and satisfying meal. The ridges of these pasta types help the sauce adhere well.- Used as a base for pizza: Spread vodka sauce over pizza dough instead of traditional tomato sauce for a creamy and flavorful pizza base.- Used as a dipping sauce: Serve warm vodka sauce as a dip for crusty bread, mozzarella sticks, or fried calamari. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a great accompaniment.- Used as a topping for vegetables: Drizzle vodka sauce over roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or eggplant to add richness and depth of flavor. - Used in baked dishes: Incorporate vodka sauce into baked dishes like lasagna, manicotti, or stuffed shells for extra moisture and flavor. It pairs particularly well with cheeses like ricotta and mozzarella. - Used as a base for other sauces: Customize vodka sauce by adding ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, Italian sausage, or shrimp to create variations that suit your taste.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
200.0kcal (10%)
Protein
5.0g (10%)
Carbs
15.0g (5.45%)
Sugars
8.0g (16%)
Healthy Fat
6.6g
Unhealthy Fat
8.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
200.0kcal (10%)
Protein
5.0g (10%)
Carbs
15.0g (5.45%)
Sugars
8.0g (16%)
Healthy Fat
6.6g
Unhealthy Fat
8.5g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Health Benefits
- Provides lycopene from tomatoes, acting as an antioxidant.
- May offer some vitamins and minerals depending on added ingredients like herbs and vegetables.
- Can be part of a balanced meal when paired with whole grains and lean protein.
- Tomato-based sauces may promote heart health through dietary lycopene intake.
- Dairy content can contribute to calcium intake, important for bone health (if made with cream).
Substitutes
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Storage Tips
Store opened vodka sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly refrigerated, it should remain fresh for 3-5 days. To freeze, portion the sauce into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. Frozen vodka sauce can last for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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