🍋 Lemon Basil Rigatoni with Burrata & Roasted Pine Nuts
✨ Description
This dish combines al dente rigatoni tossed in a silky lemon-basil cream sauce, topped with luscious burrata and crunchy roasted pine nuts. It’s zesty, herbaceous, and perfectly balanced—comfort food with a fresh twist.
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 400 g rigatoni pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- ½ cup pine nuts
- 2 balls burrata cheese
- Extra basil leaves, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Toast the Pine Nuts
In a dry pan over medium heat, toast pine nuts for 2–3 minutes until golden. Set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
In the same pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Add cream, lemon zest, and juice. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add Cheese & Basil
Stir in Parmesan until melted. Add chopped basil, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Combine
Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss until well coated.
6. Serve
Plate the pasta, tear burrata over the top, and sprinkle with toasted pine nuts and fresh basil.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Swap cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter tangy version
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred
- A drizzle of honey can balance the lemon acidity beautifully
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: The sauce is best fresh, but you can prep components ahead. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk or water.
Q: What can I use instead of burrata?
A: Fresh mozzarella or ricotta works well, though burrata gives the creamiest finish.
Q: How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
A: Keep heat low when adding lemon juice and cream, and stir continuously.
Q: Is it vegetarian?
A: Yes—just ensure your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.
