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Creating a delicious pasta sauce with anchovies and capers is a simple way to elevate your Italian cooking. This sauce combines the salty richness of anchovies with the tangy punch of capers, resulting in a flavorful and quick dish perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients Needed
- 400g spaghetti or your preferred pasta
- 4-6 anchovy fillets in oil
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of half a lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
Begin by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add the anchovy fillets to the skillet. Use a spoon to break them apart and cook until they melt into the oil, about 2-3 minutes. This creates a savory base for your sauce.
Stir in the drained capers and cook for another minute. Then, add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet. Toss well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta and mix again. If the sauce seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Tips
This anchovy and capers pasta pairs well with a crisp white wine and a light salad. For extra flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese just before serving.
Enjoy your homemade, flavorful pasta sauce that’s quick to prepare and full of authentic Italian taste!