Spicy Penne Alla Vodka with Shrimp

1: Bring water to a roaring boil for pasta to cook in. Add salt to the water.

2: In a pan on medium heat, drizzle olive oil and put in 2 minced garlic cloves. Place shrimp in and cook for 1 minute on each side, until orange/pink but slightly raw.

3: Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.

4: In a pan with high sides, add olive oil, garlic, and onions. Cook until garlic is fragrant.

5: Add vodka and cook down until almost completely evaporated.

6: Once vodka is evaporated, add asparagus and mushrooms, and cook until slightly softened.

7: Add tomato paste until incorporated and cook down until a bit thicker.

8: Put heat on low, add heavy cream, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook down for about 10 minutes.

9: Cook pasta until al dente.

10: Once pasta is done, take 1/4 cup pasta water and add it to the vodka sauce.

11: Add cooked shrimp and drained pasta to the sauce. Mix until incorporated.

12: Add fresh cheese, basil, and butter. Cook until melted. Taste for saltiness, adding more if needed.

13: Top with more cheese, fresh basil, and more red pepper flakes. Enjoy!