Picture this: a warm, comforting bowl of rigatoni smothered in a zesty, citrusy pesto, topped with creamy burrata and crunchy roasted pine nuts. It’s like the best of summer in a dish, all wrapped up in one bite. The freshness of lemon and herbs, the richness of burrata, and that delightful crunch from the pine nuts make this Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts a showstopper. This recipe will have you savoring every spoonful, and the best part? It’s as easy as it is delicious. Trust me, this one is a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner with loved ones, prepping for a weeknight meal, or entertaining guests, this dish has the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for a casual dinner or a fancy meal. It works for any occasion!

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients, big flavor. No need to break the bank for something delicious.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have this on your table in under 30 minutes.

Customizable: Want to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted veggies? Go for it! This pesto is flexible.

Crowd-Pleasing: Burrata is always a crowd favorite, and the crispy, roasted pine nuts add the perfect finishing touch. Everyone will love this!

Ingredients in Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts

This dish might look fancy, but it’s made with simple ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Let’s break it down:

Rigatoni Pasta: The hearty, ridged pasta that’s perfect for holding onto that creamy pesto. It gives you a satisfying bite with each forkful.

Basil: The star of our pesto, providing that herbaceous, fresh, and aromatic base.

Lemon Zest and Juice: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that really makes the pesto pop. It’s refreshing and vibrant.

Garlic: A little garlic for a savory, aromatic depth to the pesto just a touch goes a long way.

Parmesan: Aged and nutty, this cheese gives the pesto its signature richness and umami flavor.

Olive Oil: The smooth, silky base for the pesto. It brings all the ingredients together and helps create that luscious texture.

Pine Nuts: Roasted to golden perfection for a crispy, nutty crunch that balances the creaminess of the burrata.

Burrata: The creamy, dreamy cheese that makes everything come together. The soft center oozes out and blends beautifully with the pesto.

Salt & Pepper: To taste, to bring out the best in all those fresh flavors.

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for roasting the pine nuts. Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper.

Make the Pesto

In a food processor or blender, combine fresh basil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Slowly drizzle in olive oil while blending until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—add more lemon or garlic if you like a bolder flavor.

Roast the Pine Nuts

Spread pine nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for about 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Watch them closely—they can burn quickly!

Cook the Pasta

While the pine nuts are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a bit of pasta water to help bring everything together later.

Toss the Pasta

In a large bowl, toss the cooked rigatoni with the pesto, adding a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir until all the pasta is coated in that vibrant, lemony pesto.

Assemble the Dish

Transfer the pesto-coated rigatoni to a serving dish. Tear the burrata into chunks and place it on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with the roasted pine nuts for a nice crunchy texture and a hint of nuttiness.

Finishing Touches

Add a few extra shavings of Parmesan and a little extra lemon zest for brightness. Serve immediately, letting that burrata melt into the warm pasta.

Serve and Enjoy

Dig in and enjoy the creamy, tangy goodness of this dish. It’s perfect on its own, or pair it with a light salad or grilled protein for a more substantial meal.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~500

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

• Serve with a fresh, zesty arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
• Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, to complement the lemony flavors.
• Make it a full meal with roasted vegetables on the side, like zucchini, bell peppers, or tomatoes.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• For a vegan version, swap the Parmesan for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese alternative.
• Don’t over-roast the pine nuts they can go from golden to burnt in seconds!
• If you prefer a smoother pesto, you can add a bit more olive oil or a splash of water to get the consistency just right.
• Add extra lemon zest to the pasta for even more citrusy brightness.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape you like will work, but I recommend using something with texture, like fusilli or penne, to help hold the pesto.

2. Can I make the pesto ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pesto a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge in an airtight container.

3. Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor and texture, but pre-shredded will work in a pinch.

4. Is burrata essential?
Burrata adds a luxurious creaminess, but if you can’t find it, fresh mozzarella or ricotta would be great alternatives.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pesto pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

6. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, just use your favorite gluten-free pasta in place of the rigatoni.

7. Can I substitute the pine nuts?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds are great alternatives if you can’t find pine nuts.

8. How do I make this dish spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto or sprinkle some on top for a little heat.

9. Can I freeze the pesto?
Yes, pesto freezes well! Store it in an airtight container or ice cube trays for easy portioning.

10. What should I pair this with for a full meal?
Grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh, green salad would all pair wonderfully with this pasta.

Conclusion

This Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts is one of those dishes that’s simple to make but feels like a treat every time. The combination of fresh lemon, creamy burrata, and the delightful crunch of pine nuts makes for an unforgettable pasta experience. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, it’s sure to impress. So, grab that rigatoni and get cooking you’re in for a real treat!

Print