Hearty Butter Beans Alla Vodka Sauce
If you’re looking for a twist on a classic Italian dish, Butter Beans Alla Vodka is your answer. This creamy, indulgent recipe combines the hearty texture of butter beans with a rich vodka sauce, perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its robust flavors and comforting creaminess, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (15 oz) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Water for boiling pasta

Cooking Method
Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic. Drain and rinse the butter beans.
Cook the Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Vodka: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, vodka, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld.
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Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the remaining water.
Add Butter Beans and Cream: Stir in the butter beans and cream to the sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat each piece. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Stir in Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, mixing well until the cheese is melted and the herbs are distributed evenly.
Serve: Divide the pasta among four plates, ensuring an even distribution of sauce and beans. Garnish with additional Parmesan and basil if desired.
Nutritious Value and Pairings
Butter Beans Alla Vodka is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients. Butter beans are an excellent source of protein and fiber, aiding in digestion and providing sustained energy. This creamy dish is modest in calories, making it a great choice for those seeking a balanced meal.
For the perfect accompaniment, consider serving this dish with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil, which offers a fresh, peppery contrast to the rich sauce. A glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, or a light red like Chianti, pairs beautifully with the dish. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a chilled iced tea would complement the flavors well.
Enjoy your meal as a comforting yet elegant addition to your home-cooked repertoire!