Gigi Hadid Spicy Vodka Pasta Recipe…with NO Vodka!

Introduction

Gigi Hadid’s spicy vodka pasta took the internet by storm when she shared it on Instagram. The creamy, spicy sauce paired with rigatoni pasta became a viral sensation. But what if you want to enjoy the same dish without the vodka? No worries—this version is just as delicious, minus the alcohol. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, this “vodka” pasta is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details of this easy, non-alcoholic recipe that’s still packed with flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) rigatoni pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small shallot, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice level)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth (instead of vodka)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Begin by cooking the rigatoni in a large pot of salted boiling water. Follow the instructions on the pasta package. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the shallot becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the Flavor:
   Stir in the red pepper flakes and tomato paste. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to slightly caramelize.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 3 minutes. Add the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let the sauce cook on low heat until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
6. Serve:
   Garnish with fresh basil and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!

Recipe Notes

• Alcohol-Free Option:
  By using vegetable broth instead of vodka, this recipe is suitable for those who prefer to avoid alcohol. The vegetable broth provides a savory depth to the sauce, making it just as rich and satisfying.
• Add Protein:
  For a more hearty meal, you can add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon to this pasta. It complements the creamy sauce and enhances the flavor.
• Adjust the Spice Level:
  If you like it spicy, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, reduce the amount or leave them out entirely.

Time and Serving

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Skillet for the sauce
• Stirring spoon
• Grater (for Parmesan cheese)

Health Benefits

While this dish is indulgent, it also offers some nutritional value:

• Healthy Fats: Olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels.
• Protein: If you add protein like chicken or shrimp, it enhances the meal’s protein content, making it a more balanced option.
• Calcium: Parmesan cheese is a great source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.

How to Serve

This dish is best enjoyed hot, right after preparing. Pair it with a light salad or garlic bread for a full meal. A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness of the creamy sauce. For a lighter option, you can serve this pasta with a refreshing cucumber or tomato salad.

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Pasta Texture: Always cook your pasta al dente (firm to the bite) to ensure it holds up well when mixed with the sauce. This prevents the pasta from becoming soggy.
• Smooth Sauce: Stir the cream into the broth slowly to create a smooth, velvety sauce. Avoid rushing this step for the best texture.
• Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it sits, so you might need to add a bit of cream or water when reheating.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store the leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: While pasta dishes with cream don’t always freeze well, you can freeze the sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat and mix with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

[cal_calc]

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this pasta vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream. Additionally, use dairy-free cheese for the topping.

Q2: What can I substitute for the vegetable broth?
If you don’t have vegetable broth, you can use chicken broth or even water. Just add extra seasoning to make up for the flavor.

Q3: How can I make this pasta spicier?
Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

Q4: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! While rigatoni is a great choice, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli.

Q5: Is it okay to add other vegetables?
Yes! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture. Sauté them with the garlic and shallots for the best result.

Final Thoughts

This Gigi Hadid-inspired spicy vodka pasta, made without vodka, is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With creamy sauce, a hint of spice, and rich flavors, this pasta will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own—whether by adding protein, adjusting the spice level, or tossing in some veggies. Enjoy this flavorful dish, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!