The Coulter Kitchen

1 pound (500g) penne pasta

4 tablespoons butter

1/4 pound lean smoked bacon, diced

4 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

3/4 pound ripe tomatoes, peeled and diced- 2 large or 1 can plum tomatoes, diced

1/4 cup vodka

1/2 cup whipping cream

1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

salt and pepper

fresh basil

Cook pasta in boiling, salted water until just tender. Drain. Melt butter in skillet, add bacon, garlic, nutmeg, cayenne, tomatoes and vodka. Cook until vodka has been absorbed. Stir in cream, season with salt and pepper; cook until sauce is thick and creamy, stirring occasionally. Toss with penne, sprinkle with cheese and garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Yield: 6 servings