Supermodel Gigi Hadid’s Spicy Vodka Pasta recipe

Try Gigi’s delicious spicy vodka pasta. PHOTO: Stock image

When supermodel Gigi Hadid shared her take on spicy vodka pasta through an Instagram story in 2020, it wasn’t just her fans who took notice—food lovers everywhere were intrigued.

This pasta recipe, which puts a fiery twist on the traditional penne alla vodka, quickly soared in popularity, becoming a staple for many home cooks. The appeal lies in its simplicity and the delightful harmony of creamy, spicy, and robust flavors.

Here’s your chance to whip up this celebrated dish right in your kitchen, following Gigi’s personal culinary creation:

Ingredients

Pasta: 1 lb (choose shell, rigatoni, penne, or ziti)
Olive Oil: 3 tbsp
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Tomato Paste: 2 tbsp
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup
Butter: 2 tbsp
Salt: To taste
Black Pepper: To taste
Red Pepper Flakes: 1 tsp (optional for heat)
Vodka: 1/4 cup
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated
Fresh Basil: A handful, chopped
Pasta Water: 1/2 cup, reserved

Directions

STEP 1
Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta as per the package instructions. Make sure to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

STEP 2
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

STEP 3
Caramelize Tomato Paste: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the tomato paste to the skillet. Stir continuously for 2 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in flavor and color.

STEP 4
Deglaze with Vodka: Pour in the vodka carefully (the pan may flare up if using a gas stove). Let the alcohol cook off for about a minute, then lower the heat.

STEP 5
Add Cream and Butter: Stir in the heavy cream and butter, mixing until the butter is melted and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

STEP 6
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Gradually add the reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

STEP 7
Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Serve hot and enjoy the flavors that have made this dish a favorite in many homes!

Making It Without Vodka

If vodka isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy Gigi Hadid’s pasta recipe. Simply substitute the vodka with another liquid. Here are a few suggestions:

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a sharp, almost alcoholic tang, making it a great alternative.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon brightens the dish and cuts through the cream’s richness.
• Pasta Water: Although flavorless, it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency while maintaining its existing flavors.
  

Spicy pasta ingredients. PHOTO: Stock image