Giada's Penne With Vodka Sauce

 I have had vodka sauces before, jarred or from restaurants, but I have never attempted it at home. Although this Giada (TV Network: Everyday Italian) sauce I made wasn't completely homemade, it tasted great and with all the fresh added ingredients, it sure tasted homemade. I really enjoyed it and I will definitely make it again.

Ingredients:
1 quart marinara sauce, smooth
1 cup vodka
1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
Grilled/sauteed veggies like onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers (optional)
1 pound penne
Cooked Italian sausages, sliced
Romano Cheese, grated for topping

Directions:
1. Simmer the tomato sauce and vodka in a heavy large skillet over low heat until the mixture reduces by 1/4, stirring often, about 20 minutes.

2. Stir the cream into the tomato and vodka sauce. Simmer over low heat until the sauce is heated through. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well blended. Lastly, add the grilled veggies and stir into the sauce.

3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, tender but still firm to the bite, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and transfer it to the pan with the sauce, and toss to coat.

4. Serve on a plate, topped with Romano cheese and Italian sausage, Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from: 

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/penne-with-vodka-sauce-recipe/index.html