Spicy Tomato Penne w/ Vodka

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 pound penne
• 2 tablespoons vodka
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 2 italian sausages (optional)

Instructions:

In a large skillet, heat the oil over moderate heat. If using sausage, remove the casing and add the meat to the pan. Cook, breaking up the meat, until brown. Add the garlic and red-pepper flakes and cook, stirring until the garlic is golden. Add the tomatoes and salt and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne until just done. Drain. Return the pasta to the hot pot. Add the vodka and cream to the sauce and bring to a boil. Stir the sauce into the pasta and cook over low heat for 1 minute. Stir in the parsley and serve.