Rachael Ray's Vodka Cream Pasta!

This dish is actually called "You-Won't-Be-Single-For-Long Vodka Cream Pasta", and according to Rachael, a fan of her show wrote in to say that she made this for her boyfriend who ate it just seconds before he proposed. Really! He said it was the second helping that did it. Well, in our quest to find Sheri's Prince Charming ASAP, how could we NOT give this recipe a try?? I mean, really...what did we have to lose? The vodka cream sauce is fantastic, and we've made it a few times since that first night, always groaning with pleasure as we take the first bite. Although Prince Charming still hasn't made his appearance yet, I think we've figured out the problem...we always make it for ourselves!! Yeah, that must be it...Sheri, you're going to need to invite a special someone over and make it for HIM!!!

So ladies, if you're out to get your boyfriend to take the "next big step", break out the vodka and cream and get to cookin'! We can't wait to hear your results!

Rachael Ray's Vodka Cream Pasta

1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp. butter
2 garlic cloves minced
2 shallots minced
1 c. vodka
1 c. chicken stock
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
1/2 c. heavy cream
12 oz. pasta, such as penne rigate
20 leaves fresh basil, torn
Crusty Bread

Put a large pot of salted water on to boil. Heat a large skillet over moderate heat, and add oil, butter, garlic, and shallots. Gently sautee garlic and shallots 3-5 minutes to develop their sweetness. Add vodka and simmer until reduced by half, about 2-3 minutes. Add chicken stock and tomatoes. Bring sauce to a bubble, then reduce heat to simmer. Season with salt & pepper. While the sauce simmers, cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. While pasta cooks, prepare your salad or other side dishes. Stir the cream into the vodka sauce. When the sauce returns to a bubble, remove from the heat. Drain pasta. Toss hot pasta with the sauce and basil leaves. Serve immediately, along with crusty bread.

**We like to sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top as well...it's tasty!**