Heart-Healthy Creamy Vodka Pasta

Indulge guilt-free in this Heart-Healthy Creamy Vodka Pasta, a wholesome twist on the classic Italian favorite. Made with nutrient-packed whole wheat penne, fresh kale, and sweet cherry tomatoes, this recipe combines vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients for a delicious meal that’s kind to your heart. A velvety sauce crafted from tomato paste, fat-free half-and-half, and a splash of vodka delivers all the creamy decadence you love, without the heavy cream. Enhanced with the aromatic kick of garlic, crushed red pepper flakes, and fresh basil, this pasta is savory, satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy date night. Ready in just 45 minutes, this dish is topped with freshly grated Parmesan for a touch of indulgence while maintaining its healthful appeal. Perfect for those looking for a flavorful, low-sodium, and heart-smart recipe!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 ounces Whole wheat penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 0.5 teaspoons Crushed red pepper flakes
• 6 ounces Tomato paste
• 0.5 cups Vodka
• 1 cups Low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 cups Fat-free half-and-half
• 0.25 cups Fresh basil
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups Kale
• 1 cup Cherry tomatoes
• 0.5 teaspoons Salt
• 0.25 teaspoons Black pepper

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Cook the whole wheat penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.

Step 4

Carefully add the vodka to the skillet, allowing the alcohol to simmer and cook off for about 3-4 minutes, reducing the heat if necessary.

Step 5

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the fat-free half-and-half, combining the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 6

Add the kale and cherry tomatoes to the sauce, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 7

Season the sauce with salt and black pepper. Adjust according to taste preference.

Step 8

Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet and toss it gently with the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated.

Step 9

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Finish with fresh basil leaves torn into pieces.

Step 10

Serve immediately, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and basil if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1404.1 grams (1404.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2324

Total Fat 50.40g	65%
Saturated Fat 13.60g	68%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.00g
Cholesterol 45mg	15%
Sodium 2022mg	88%
Total Carbohydrate 316.00g	115%
Dietary Fiber 35.70g	128%
Total Sugars 54.30g
Protein 77.60g	155%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1132mg	87%
Iron 18mg	101%
Potassium 4377mg	93%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 22.4%

Protein: 15.3%

Carbs: 62.3%