How to Make an Italian Sauce with Anchovies and Garlic
Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and aromatic ingredients. One lesser-known yet incredibly flavorful sauce features the simple combination of anchovies and garlic. This sauce can elevate a variety of dishes, from pasta to grilled vegetables. Here’s how to make an Italian sauce with anchovies and garlic that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4-6 anchovy fillets packed in oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Pasta of your choice (spaghetti or linguine works well)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by measuring out all your ingredients. Make sure to finely chop the garlic, as this will help to infuse the sauce with maximum flavor. Drain the anchovy fillets from their oil, but keep the oil for cooking the sauce.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Wait until it’s warm but not smoking, as you want to bring out the flavors without burning the garlic.
Step 3: Add the Anchovies
Once the oil is heated, add the anchovy fillets. Use a wooden spoon to break them apart as they cook. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The anchovies will dissolve into the oil, creating a rich base for your sauce.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
Next, add the finely chopped garlic to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and begins to turn golden. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your sauce.
Step 5: Add Red Pepper Flakes
For a bit of heat, you can add the red pepper flakes at this stage. Stir them in, and allow their flavor to meld with the anchovies and garlic for an additional minute.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
At this point, you should have cooked your pasta according to package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, reserve some pasta water (about 1/2 cup), then drain the rest. Add the pasta directly to the skillet with the anchovy-garlic sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it coat the pasta evenly.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. Because anchovies are salty, you may not need much additional salt. Transfer the pasta to serving plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfecting Your Sauce
- For a more intense flavor, try adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or a pinch of grated lemon zest right before serving.
- If you like a thicker sauce, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of ricotta cheese when serving.
- This sauce pairs beautifully with seafood, so consider adding shrimp or clams for a delicious twist.
This Italian sauce with anchovies and garlic not only adds depth and flavor to your meals but is quick and easy to prepare. Its simplicity makes it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests. Enjoy this delightful and savory sauce that truly captures the essence of Italian cooking!