Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Grilled Zucchini Ribbons -

Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Grilled Zucchini Ribbons is a delightful summer dish that combines the freshness of zucchini and the creamy richness of burrata with the bright flavors of lemon and pesto. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning and packed with flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Lemon Pesto Rigatoni is a culinary delight for several reasons. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for warm days while still giving you that comforting pasta feel. The addition of grilled zucchini ribbons not only adds a lovely texture but is also packed with nutrients. Burrata, a creamier cousin of mozzarella, brings a luxurious element to the dish that will have your guests raving. Plus, the quick cooking time of just 30 minutes means that you can enjoy a gourmet-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this Lemon Pesto Rigatoni:

12 oz rigatoni pasta – The sturdy shape holds up well with the sauce.
2 medium zucchinis – Cut into thin ribbons to grill.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For grilling the zucchini and enhancing flavor.
½ cup basil pesto – Store-bought or homemade for convenience.
Zest and juice of 1 lemon – For acidity and brightness.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty flavor.
1 ball burrata cheese (about 8 oz) – Torn into pieces for creaminess.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
Fresh basil leaves for garnish – A lovely touch for presentation.

Directions

Step 1: Start by cooking the rigatoni according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Remember to reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander. The starchy water will help to adjust the consistency of the sauce later.

Step 2: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the zucchini. Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin ribbons using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Brush the zucchini ribbons with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with a little salt and pepper. Grill the ribbons on a preheated grill or grill pan for 1-2 minutes per side until they are tender and have light grill marks. Remove from the grill and set aside.

Step 3: In a large skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and turn the heat to low. Spoon in the pesto, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Stir together until they are well combined and heated through. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts and integrates with the pesto mixture.

Step 4: Once the rigatoni is cooked, add the pasta to the skillet with the pesto mixture. Toss to combine, and add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve your desired sauce consistency. The sauce should coat the pasta beautifully without being too dry or too runny.

Step 5: Gently fold in the grilled zucchini ribbons, being careful not to break them. This will add a burst of flavor and a colorful presentation to your dish. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large bowl.

Step 6: Top each serving with torn pieces of burrata cheese. This creamy cheese will start to melt slightly and mix beautifully with the warm pasta. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and additional flavor. Season each dish with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While rigatoni works beautifully due to its shape and sturdiness, you can substitute with other types of pasta such as penne or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! This recipe is inherently vegetarian. Ensure you use a pesto that does not contain cheese (or make your own) if you want it to be completely dairy-free.

3. Is it possible to make this dish in advance?

While the pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the pesto and grill the zucchini ribbons ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge, and assemble the dish just before serving.

4. What can I use if I can’t find burrata cheese?

If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used as substitutes. They will provide a different texture but still complement the dish nicely.

5. How can I add protein to this dish?

If you would like to include protein, grilled chicken or shrimp would pair beautifully with the flavors of the lemon pesto rigatoni. Simply add them in at the same time as the zucchini ribbons.

Conclusion

Lemon Pesto Rigatoni with Burrata & Grilled Zucchini Ribbons is a dish that is as fresh as it is flavorful. It’s a perfect summer recipe that showcases seasonal vegetables and creamy cheese, all tied together with vibrant lemon and pesto. Whether you are preparing it for a family dinner or impressing guests on a warm evening, this pasta dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your culinary creation and the delightful flavors of summer!