1-First Step: Mise en place Gather all ingredients and tools before starting: a large pot, a high-speed blender or food processor, a colander, and a large spoon or tongs for tossing. Measure the 16 ounces rigatoni and portion the herbs, cheese, garlic, salt, and nutmeg so everything is ready to go.

2-Second Step: Cook the rigatoni* Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of kosher salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. The salted water seasons the pasta from the inside out.* Add 16 ounces rigatoni and stir to prevent sticking. Cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes depending on brand and size. Taste one piece at minute 9 to check texture if unsure.* Reserve 1/2 cup of hot pasta water before draining if you expect to adjust sauce consistency. Drain the rigatoni in a colander and set aside.

3-Third Step: Make the pesto Place 2/3 cup fresh chopped basil, 1/2 cup chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley, 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, 2 cloves finely minced garlic, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg into a high-speed blender or food processor. Pulse a few times to chop and combine ingredients, being careful not to overwork the herbs. With the machine running, slowly stream in 2/3 cup olive oil until the pesto becomes smooth and emulsified. Scrape down the sides if needed and pulse one or two more times to incorporate. If the pesto is too thick for your preference, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of reserved pasta water to loosen slightly.

4-Fourth Step: Combine pasta and pesto Return the drained rigatoni to the warm pot (off the heat). Add the prepared pesto and gently toss with a large spoon or tongs until every piece is evenly coated. Tossing in the warm pot lets the heat release the pesto aroma without wilting the herbs too much. Taste and adjust seasoning: add an extra pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon if you want more brightness. If the sauce seems dry, stir in a splash of olive oil or a tablespoon of reserved pasta water until the desired silkiness is reached.

5-Final Step: Serve and garnish* Portion the pasta into warmed bowls and finish with a light sprinkling of shredded Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves for freshness.* Optional add-ins like halved cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, or grilled chicken make the dish more filling and add contrasting textures.