Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsDECO WilmingtonMezze Rigatoni Recipe

Mezze Rigatoni Recipe

Inspired by DECO Wilmington
Time30m
Serves4

cherry tomato, basil pesto, burrataTree Nut Allergy (pesto contains nuts)

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Ingredients

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Pasta

Sauce

Toppings

Method

Cooking Pasta

  1. 1

    Boil the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

  2. 2

    Drain and Reserve

    Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.

Preparing the Sauce

  1. 3

    Sauté the Garlic

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

  2. 4

    Cook the Tomatoes

    Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the tomatoes soften and burst.

  3. 5

    Season the Sauce

    Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the basil pesto until well combined.

Combining Everything

  1. 6

    Mix Pasta and Sauce

    Add the drained rigatoni to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

  2. 7

    Plate the Dish

    Spoon the mezze rigatoni onto serving plates or bowls. Tear the burrata cheese and place it on top of the pasta.

  3. 8

    Garnish

    Finish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

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