Girelle alla Vodka with Pancetta and Basil
Easy 4 to 6
5 minutes 15 minutes
Main Dish Italian
Submitted by Melissa Green

Ingredients
- 16oz Girelle pasta (or similar sauce catching shape, such as Cascatelli)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, diced fine
- 4oz finely diced uncured pancetta
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, crushed
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- ½ cup vodka
- ½ cup tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream (more to taste)
- 1 handful fresh basil, sliced thin
Directions
Prepare the pasta as per directions, to al dente.
Add the oil and butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the onions and sautée until softened but not browned. Add the pancetta and continue cooking until the fat from the pancetta is partially rendered and the onions are lightly golden brown. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook for a further 30 seconds.
Add the vodka and cook for 30 seconds to a minute (the fats should emulsify). Add the tomato paste and stir until fully combined and smooth. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream. I use one cup of cream, and then add until I get the color I want.
Stir in the basil, heat through for a minute or so.
Drain the pasta and toss it in the sauce. Serve with cracked black pepper and grated parmesan.