
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
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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