Penne with Salmon and Vodka

Penne with salmon and vodka is a creamy and aromatic dish that perfectly combines the richness of smoked salmon with the intensity of vodka. It is a relatively simple and quick dish to prepare. Here is the recipe, with an Italian touch:

Ingredients

• 320 g penne rigate
• 200 g smoked salmon
• 1 shallot (or small onion)
• 100 ml vodka
• 200 ml cooking cream
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A bunch of fresh dill (optional)

Preparation

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne rigate until al dente.
2. Meanwhile, finely chop the shallot and sauté it in a pan with extra virgin olive oil until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the smoked salmon cut into strips or cubes and let it flavor for a couple of minutes.
4. Deglaze with the vodka and let the alcohol evaporate over high heat.
5. Lower the heat and add the cooking cream, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drain the penne and transfer them to the pan with the salmon and vodka sauce.
7. Stir over low heat for a few minutes, so that the pasta absorbs the sauce.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprig of chopped fresh dill if desired.

Trivia

Although vodka may seem like an unusual ingredient in a culinary preparation, in this dish it serves to enhance the flavor of the salmon and to bind together the other components of the sauce, without leaving traces of its own flavor.

And that’s all! Enjoy your meal! If you like, I can also recommend a wine or a type of bread to pair with the dish.