Creamy Penne with Tomato Vodka Sauce

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 medium shallots, minced
• 2 fluid ounces vodka
• table salt, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 20 fresh basil leaves, cut into ribbons
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced