PASTA WITH SMOKED SALMON

5 ripe plum tomatoes, about 1 pound

3/4 pound tubular pasta

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic

2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots

Freshly ground pepper to taste

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup pepper vodka (I use regular vodka as I’ve never found pepper vodka) 1/2 pound sliced smoked salmon,cut into 1 1/2 inch strips

2 tablespoons butter

1/2 cup coarsely chopped cilantro or basil

Freshly grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese

Core tomatoes and drop into boiling water for 10 to 12 seconds. Drain and peel. Cut into 1/2-inch cubes. You should have about 2 1/4 cups/ Cook pasta in salted water according to directions. It should be al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup cooking liquid. Meanwhile heat oil in a large skillet and add garlic and shallots. Cook briefly, stirring without browning. Add tomatoes, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring for one minute. Add cream and vodka and cook one minute. Add pasta and reserved cooking liquid (if needed to thin) to the tomato sauce. Blend well and simmer one minute. Add salmon, butter and cilantro or basil. Toss well and cook one minute. Serve immediately with cheese.

Nov 11, 2009