Penne alla Vodka with Scallops
Penne alla Vodka with Scallops is a luxurious Italian-American fusion dish that pairs the classic creamy, tomato-vodka sauce with tender, seared sea scallops. The sauce typically features penne pasta, tomato paste, heavy cream, vodka, and aromatics like garlic and onion, while the scallops add a sweet, delicate seafood element. It’s a modern twist on a beloved Roman trattoria staple, elevating it with a gourmet protein.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is rich in carbohydrates from the pasta, fat from the cream and scallops, and provides a good amount of protein from the scallops. Key nutrients include calcium, vitamin C, and selenium, with a rough calorie estimate of 700-900 per serving depending on portion sizes and cream content.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 580 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 62 g |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
| Potassium | 520 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.8 mcg |
| Selenium | 32 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 310 mg |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Zinc | 2.8 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45 mcg RAE |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The addition of vodka is unique because it helps release flavor compounds in the tomatoes and cream that aren't water-soluble, creating a smoother, more integrated sauce. Nutritionally, scallops are a lean source of protein and contain omega-3 fatty acids, making this a more balanced indulgence compared to traditional meat-based versions.
