Creamy Tomato Pasta Sauce

4 Tbsp Olive Oil
2 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
1 Tbsp Balsamic Vinegar
1/2 Cup Vodka
2 Cups Crushed Tomatoes (preferrably fresh, but canned will work in the off-season)
2 tsp Sugar
2 tsp Salt
1 Cup Heavy Cream
2 Tbsp Fresh Herbs, finely chopped (basil or tarragon are nice)

In a soup pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the red pepper flakes and simmer for a few minutes. Lower the heat to medium low and add the garlic. Cook until fragrant and add the vinegar and vodka. Raise heat to medium and burn off the alcohol. Add the tomatoes and cook until the meat breaks down. Add the sugar, salt and heavy cream. Simmer until the sauce is heated through. Stir in herbs just before serving. Toss with any pasta or serve over sauteed chicken breast or shrimp.

The Enlightened Palate

Creamy Tomato Pasta Sauce