Shrimp and Penne in a Creamy Vodka Sauce

 Last evening we had my sister Kim and my Aunt Ann up for a combined birthday celebration dinner. I know my aunt loves shrimp and it actually worked out perfect for me since I gave up meat for Lent. This recipe has been one of my favorites for 20 years now, and its never failed me.

 

Relatively simple, all you need for this scrumptious meal is...

 

3 cloves of garlic minces

3 T. olive oil for sauteing

2 28 oz cans of whole tomatoes

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1/4 cup grated cheese

1/2 cup vodka

Large (31-40 count) shrimp peeled and deveined (It's OK to leave the tails on)

1/4 cup fresh basil coarsely chopped

salt and pepper to taste

About 20 -22 ounces of cooked pasta

Tomato paste is optional if you prefer a thiker sauce.

 

Saute the garlic in the olive oil over medium high heat for about 4 minutes, stirring to make sure the garlic doesn't burn. Add the tomatoes, whipping cream and cheese...blend and heat through, about 10 minutes. (If you want to thicken your sauce, add the paste in at this point) Add the vodka, shrimp and basil then season with salt and pepper, heat through, about 2 minutes. Toss with cooked pasta and serve.

 

This should yield enough to serve 8 healthy sized portions.

 

 

I paired this past dish with a light Pinot Grigio and after dinner I served a citrusy carrot cake with a white chocolate cream cheese frosting...needless to say the birthday girls were very happy!

 

Wishing you a wonderful start to the week as we will be saying hello to March by Friday.

 

Spring is almost here!!!

XO

 

Sharing this post at link parties over at these wonderful blogs...

 

StoneGable

Cedar Hill Ranch ~ Cowgirl Up

Elizabeth & Co

The Shady Porch

Ivy and Elephants