Penne a la Vodka

I got this recipe from a little tear-out recipe book from Family Circle back in '99.  We love this!

Penne a la Vodka

2 tbsp. olive oil
4 cloves garlic, chopped
6 oz. sliced prosciutto or Canadian bacon, chopped
3 green onions, trimmed, thinly sliced
1/2 tsp. ground red pepper (cayenne), optional
1/4 cup vodka
1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
3/4 cup heavy cream
1 tsp. salt
1 lb. penne pasta

1.  Heat oil in medium-sized saucepan over low heat.  Add garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes, making sure the garlic doesn't burn.  Add prosciutto, green onion, ground red pepper and vodka; cook for 4 minutes over medium heat.  Add tomatoes; cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes.  Add cream and salt; cook 3 minutes.

2.  Meanwhile, cook penne in a large pot of lightly salted boiling water until al dente, firm but tender.  Drain well.  Toss penne with vodka sauce to coat evenly.