Off to College

This is my daughter's favorite dinner. She is leaving for college tomorrow - tears streaming down my face... Where did the time go? This dish is very simple yet awesome - no wonder it's her favorite. She is smart, compassionate, kind, witty, and generally awesome - I know that I am her mom, but it's true! I am going to miss her so much but know that she will accomplish great things! She has a great appreciation for home cooking, fresh vegetables, and healthy choices. I now have to surrender her dining to Sharples Dining Hall at Swarthmore College. I am so very proud of her -this is going to be a tough week...

INGREDIENTS

1 pound uncooked penne pasta (I used farfalle)
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
3/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vodka
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 (3.5 ounce) links sweet Italian sausage (I used sausage from Cherry Grove Farms)

Penne with Spicy Vodka Tomato Cream Sauce

Adapted from All Recipes

DIRECTIONS
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain.
In large skillet, heat oil over moderate heat. Remove casing from sausage and add to skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat, until brown. Add garlic and red pepper and cook, stirring until garlic is golden brown.
Add tomatoes and salt; bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes.
Add vodka and cream and bring to boil. Reduce heat to low and add pasta, toss for 1 minute. Stir in fresh parsley and serve!