Indulge in this incredibly easy and quick Mediterranean pasta, bursting with the creamy richness of burrata and the vibrant, nutty flavour of pistachio pesto. Fresh basil and garlic elevate this dish, making it an irresistible, healthier alternative to processed sauces. Pistachios are packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious!
rigatoni or similar short pasta
cubed
halved
leaves
to taste
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil for the pasta.
While the pasta water heats, cook the cubed pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove most of the crispy pancetta and set aside, leaving a small amount in the pan. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside.
Add the pasta to the boiling salted water and cook according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the remaining pancetta and cook for a few minutes until slightly softened. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the tomatoes, along with a ladleful of pasta cooking water, and stir to combine.
While the pasta finishes cooking and the water evaporates, prepare the pesto. In a food processor, combine the basil leaves, garlic cloves, pistachios, burrata, a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Remove the pasta from the heat. Add the burrata and pistachio pesto to the pasta in the skillet. Add another ladleful of pasta cooking water and mix thoroughly until the pasta is well coated and creamy. Serve immediately, garnished with the reserved crispy pancetta and a fresh basil leaf.
For an extra fresh twist, add a few mint leaves to the pesto mixture before blending.
If you prefer a stronger garlic flavour, you can roast the garlic cloves slightly before adding them to the pesto.
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the pancetta and add sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of umami.
Always reserve some pasta cooking water! It's a secret weapon for creating a silky, emulsified sauce.