Thrifty Recipe- Vodka and Red Pepper Sauce Pasta

This is a thrifty go-to dish when I haven't planned anything for dinner. It's quick and the vodka ads some bite! The recipe is from one of our favorites, The 5 in 10 Cookbook. Serve with a green salad and some garlic bread.

Vodka and Red Pepper Sauce Pasta with Basil
Adapted from The 5 in 10 Cookbook.

Ingredients:
1/3 cup vodka
1-2 teaspoons hot red pepper flakes
1 pound fresh or dried plain or spinach fettuccine
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes in puree
1 cup loosely packed basil leaves (or you can substitute 2 teaspoons dried basil)

1. Combine the vodka and red pepper flakes; let stand for 5 minutes, then strain, discarding the flakes and keeping the flavored vodka.
2. Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine according to the package directions
3. Place the tomatoes and basil in a saucepan on the stove and heat to bubbling. Add vodka and stir. Turn off heat. (this step can be done in the microwave, but we prefer on the stove)
4. Drain the pasta and toss with the tomato sauce.