Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts
Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts is a fresh and flavorful pasta dish that brings together the bright flavors of lemon and the rich taste of basil pesto. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With creamy burrata and crunchy roasted pine nuts, it offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that everyone will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make. It requires simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. The combination of lemon and pesto adds a refreshing twist to the classic pasta dish, making it a standout choice for any meal. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your family and friends with minimal effort!
How to Make Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts
Ingredients:
- 8 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1/3 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Burrata cheese
- Roasted pine nuts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rigatoni, basil pesto, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the pasta topped with burrata cheese and sprinkle with roasted pine nuts. Drizzle with olive oil if desired.
- Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Lemon Pesto Rigatoni
Serve Lemon Pesto Rigatoni warm, with the creamy burrata on top. You can add extra roasted pine nuts for a nice crunch and a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor. Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
How to Store Lemon Pesto Rigatoni
If you have leftovers, store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help bring back the creamy texture.
Tips to Make Lemon Pesto Rigatoni
- For a deeper flavor, toast the pine nuts before using them in the dish. This will enhance their nuttiness.
- If you prefer a lighter version, use less pesto or mix in some additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes or spinach.
- Always taste the dish before serving; you can adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.
Variation
You can swap rigatoni for other types of pasta, such as penne or fusilli. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses too – mozzarella or goat cheese can be great alternatives to burrata.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade pesto in this recipe?
Yes! Homemade pesto adds a fresh touch to the dish. Just make sure it’s a similar consistency to store-bought pesto.
2. Is this dish vegetarian?
Yes, Lemon Pesto Rigatoni is vegetarian-friendly. It’s perfect for those who don’t eat meat.
3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can cook the pasta and mix it with the pesto and lemon ahead of time, but it’s best to add the burrata and pine nuts just before serving for the best texture.
