A Burst of Freshness in Every Bite
If you love creamy, vibrant pasta dishes, this Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts is a must-try! This recipe combines tangy lemon pesto, velvety burrata cheese, and crunchy pine nuts to create a gourmet dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. The bright citrus notes balance beautifully with the richness of burrata, while roasted pine nuts add the perfect crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Flavorful – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Restaurant-Worthy – A stunning dish that tastes like it came from an Italian bistro.
- Customizable – Easily adapt ingredients for dietary preferences.
This pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or a crisp white wine. Plus, if you’re looking for more delicious pasta options, check out this refreshing Greek Chicken Pasta Salad.
Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this dish to life!
What You’ll Need (Tools & Equipment)
Essential Kitchen Tools for Perfect Pasta
To make this Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools. These will help ensure a smooth cooking process and the best possible texture for your pasta.
Must-Have Equipment
- Large Pot – For boiling the rigatoni to al dente perfection.
- Colander – To drain the pasta efficiently.
- Blender or Food Processor – Essential for making homemade lemon pesto sauce quickly.
- Small Skillet – For roasting the pine nuts to bring out their nutty flavor.
- Mixing Bowl – To toss the pasta with the pesto sauce evenly.
- Microplane/Zester – Helps in zesting fresh lemon for a bold citrus kick.
Optional But Helpful Tools
- Tongs or Pasta Spoon – Makes tossing the pasta easier.
- Kitchen Scale – For precise ingredient measurements.
- Serving Platter – If you’re presenting this dish at a dinner gathering.
Having these tools ready will make assembling this dish a breeze! If you’re a fan of crispy textures, you might also love this Crispy Cauliflower: Perfectly Crunchy Every Time recipe, which uses similar roasting techniques.
Ingredients
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients for the Perfect Pasta
To create this Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts, you’ll need a mix of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Using premium olive oil, fresh basil, and creamy burrata will elevate the flavors of this dish.
For the Rigatoni & Toppings
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta – A sturdy pasta shape that holds onto the pesto sauce beautifully.
- 8 oz burrata cheese – Adds a creamy, indulgent texture.
- ¼ cup pine nuts – Roasted for a nutty crunch.
- Fresh basil leaves – For garnish and extra freshness.
- Salt & black pepper – To taste.
For the Lemon Pesto Sauce
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves – The base of the pesto.
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil – Use a high-quality variety for the best flavor.
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami depth.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice – Brightens up the sauce.
- 1 tsp lemon zest – Enhances the citrus notes.
- 1 clove garlic – For a punch of flavor.
- ¼ cup pine nuts – Blended into the pesto for richness.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- No burrata? Swap it for fresh mozzarella or creamy ricotta.
- Nut-free option? Use sunflower seeds instead of pine nuts.
- Gluten-free? Choose a gluten-free rigatoni brand.
- Extra heat? Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Instructions (Step-by-Step Guide)
How to Make Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts
Follow these simple steps to bring this creamy, citrusy pasta to life. The combination of homemade lemon pesto, perfectly cooked rigatoni, and indulgent burrata will make this dish a new favorite!
Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni
- Bring a big pot of water with salt to a boil.
- Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta using a colander.
- Drizzle the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Pesto
- In a food processor or blender, combine:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Pine nuts
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic
- Lemon juice & zest
- Pulse a few times until the mixture is finely chopped.
- While blending, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil until smooth.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Roast the Pine Nuts
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat (no oil needed).
- Add ¼ cup of pine nuts and stir frequently for 2-3 minutes, until golden and fragrant.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a bowl to prevent burning.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni with the lemon pesto sauce.
- If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help coat the pasta evenly.
- Gently tear the burrata cheese and place it on top of the pasta.
- Sprinkle with roasted pine nuts and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Finish with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of black pepper.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve immediately while the burrata is soft and creamy. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad and a glass of white wine. Looking for another flavorful pasta option? Try this refreshing Greek Chicken Pasta Salad!
Nutrition Score
A Nutritious and Flavor-Packed Meal
This Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts is a satisfying and flavorful dish, balancing healthy fats, protein, and a boost of greens from the fresh basil. Below is the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
Nutrition per Serving (Approx.)
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Calcium: 150mg
- Iron: 2mg
Health Benefits
- Healthy Fats: The combination of pine nuts and extra virgin olive oil provides a healthy source of monounsaturated fats, supporting heart health.
- Protein: Burrata cheese offers a rich source of protein, helping to keep you feeling full.
- Vitamins & Minerals: The fresh basil and lemon provide a good dose of vitamin C, while the Parmesan adds a boost of calcium.
This dish is a perfect option for a balanced meal that combines indulgence with nourishment!
Serving & Storage Tips
How to Serve Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts
This pasta is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion! The creamy burrata and roasted pine nuts make for a visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress. Here’s how to serve it:
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
- Serve immediately while the burrata is soft and creamy. The warmth of the pasta will melt the burrata, creating a luscious, rich sauce.
- Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay, to complement the fresh, tangy flavors of the lemon pesto.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, you can store this delicious pasta for later! Here’s how:
- Refrigerate: Place the pasta in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of olive oil or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Freeze: While the burrata may lose its creamy texture, you can freeze the pasta for up to 1 month. To do so, store the pasta in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
If you’re looking for another pasta dish with delicious flavors, consider trying this Greek Chicken Pasta Salad for a light and refreshing option!
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
Customize Your Lemon Pesto Rigatoni
While this recipe is delicious as-is, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try!
Substitute Ingredients
- Pasta Shape: While rigatoni is perfect for holding onto the pesto, you can easily swap it for other pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or spaghetti.
- Cheese: If you don’t have burrata, you can substitute with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or even goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Nuts: If you’re allergic to pine nuts, you can use sunflower seeds or walnuts for a similar crunch.
- Vegan Version: For a plant-based option, substitute the burrata with vegan cheese or avocado for a creamy texture, and replace Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.
Add Protein
- Grilled Chicken: For extra protein, top your pasta with grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for an extra veggie boost!
- Tofu: For a vegetarian protein option, pan-fried tofu can replace burrata for a hearty dish.
Make It Spicy
If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh chili to the pesto for an extra kick.
Experimenting with these variations can help you tailor the dish to your specific needs or preferences. If you’re interested in another tasty variation, you might enjoy making this Roasted Cranberry Goat Cheese Flatbread!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does burrata go with pesto pasta?
Yes, burrata pairs wonderfully with pesto pasta! The creamy texture of burrata complements the bold, herbaceous flavors of the pesto sauce. When combined, the burrata melts into the warm pasta, adding richness and a luscious creaminess. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Should pine nuts be roasted for pesto?
Yes, roasting pine nuts enhances their flavor and brings out a deeper, nuttier taste, which complements the pesto perfectly. You can quickly toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
Should I put pesto on before or after cooking?
It’s best to add the pesto after cooking the pasta. Once the pasta is drained and still warm, toss it with the pesto sauce to coat the noodles evenly. The heat from the pasta helps the pesto cling to the rigatoni, making each bite more flavorful.
How to make lemon pesto sauce?
Making lemon pesto sauce is simple and quick. Here’s a basic process:
- Combine fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest in a food processor or blender.
- Add lemon juice and olive oil, then pulse until the mixture is smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the pesto with cooked pasta, and you’re done! For extra citrus flavor, adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your liking.
Conclusion
Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together the creamy richness of burrata and the bright zing of lemon pesto. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s a simple yet impressive meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich in flavor: The combination of fresh basil, lemon, and burrata creates a truly indulgent dish.
- Customizable: With easy variations like adding protein or swapping ingredients, you can make it your own.
- Quick and easy: It’s a 30-minute meal that’s perfect for busy evenings, yet elegant enough for entertaining.
We hope this recipe inspires you to create a delicious meal with bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Don’t forget to share your creation on social media and tag us! If you’re craving another flavorful pasta dish, try this Greek Chicken Pasta Salad for a light and fresh alternative.
Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!