Mezze Rigatoni Recipe
cherry tomato, basil pesto, burrataTree Nut Allergy (pesto contains nuts)
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Pasta
Sauce
Toppings
Method
Cooking Pasta
- 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
Drain and Reserve
Once cooked, drain the pasta and reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
Preparing the Sauce
- 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.
- 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.
- 5
Season the Sauce
Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the basil pesto until well combined.
Combining Everything
- 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.
- 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.
- 8
Garnish
Finish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.


