When it comes to adding depth and umami flavor to your dishes, few ingredients are as effective as anchovies. These tiny fish have been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for centuries, and their salty, savory taste has won over even the most skeptical palates. Whether you’re looking to add a boost of flavor to your pasta dishes, salads, or main courses, anchovies are an excellent addition to any kitchen.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and creative recipes that showcase the versatility of anchovies. From classic Italian dishes like spaghetti with garlic anchovy sauce to innovative fusion recipes like grilled anchovy pizza with arugula, there’s something for everyone on this list. So whether you’re an anchovy aficionado or just looking to try something new, read on to discover the many ways you can use these tiny fish to elevate your cooking.
Spaghetti with Garlic Anchovy Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the rich flavors of garlic and anchovies. A perfect representation of Italian cuisine’s emphasis on bold, uncomplicated flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup anchovy fillets in oil, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add the anchovy fillets to the skillet and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Combine the cooked spaghetti and sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caesar Salad with Homemade Anchovy Dressing
Transform a simple green salad into an unforgettable experience with this iconic recipe, featuring a rich and savory homemade anchovy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup homemade anchovy dressing (recipe below)
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Homemade Anchovy Dressing:
– 1 can of anchovies, rinsed and finely minced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 large egg yolks
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine anchovies, garlic, lemon juice, and egg yolks. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until the dressing thickens slightly.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. In a large bowl, toss together romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
5. Drizzle homemade anchovy dressing over the salad and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly spent preparing the dressing)
Anchovy and Olive Tapenade
This rich and savory tapenade is a perfect accompaniment to crackers, bread, or as a spread for cheese or meat. With its bold flavors of anchovies and olives, it’s sure to elevate any snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, chopped
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine olives, anchovies, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Process until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Continue processing until the tapenade reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy spread that can be prepared in just 5 minutes.
Grilled Anchovy Pizza with Arugula
This recipe combines the rich flavor of anchovies with the brightness of arugula for a unique and delicious pizza experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 6-8 grilled anchovy fillets, rinsed under cold water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh arugula leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on a lightly floured surface or a piece of parchment paper.
3. Brush crust with olive oil, then top with minced garlic and mozzarella cheese.
4. Arrange grilled anchovy fillets over the cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese.
7. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
8. Remove from grill, let cool slightly, then garnish with fresh arugula leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Anchovy Butter Steak
Elevate your steak game with this savory twist on a classic. Rich anchovy butter adds depth and umami flavor to the tender grilled steak.
Ingredients:
– 4 steaks (6 oz each, preferably ribeye or strip loin)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 can of anchovies (2-3 fillets), drained and finely chopped
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, chopped anchovies, and lemon zest until well combined.
3. Season the steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the steaks for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread a small amount of the anchovy butter on each steak.
6. Let the steaks rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pasta Puttanesca with Anchovies
This spicy and savory pasta dish originated in Naples, Italy, and is characterized by its bold flavors and simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 anchovy fillets (rinsed and finely chopped)
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add olives, anchovies, and capers to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring pasta is well coated with sauce.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Anchovy Stuffed Peppers
Savory peppers filled with salty anchovies and aromatic herbs – a flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can of anchovies (drained and rinsed)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix anchovies, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the anchovy mixture, filling to the top.
5. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle on top of the peppers.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Anchovy and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your bruschetta game with the salty-sweet combination of anchovies and fresh tomatoes. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic.
4. Top each slice with a halved cherry tomato, a few anchovy pieces, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the tomatoes are slightly caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Anchovy and Potato Gratin
Anchovy and Potato Gratin Recipe
Summary: This creamy gratin combines the savory flavors of anchovies with tender potatoes, perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped anchovies and cook, stirring occasionally, until they dissolve into a savory paste, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Arrange cooked potato slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with the anchovy-butter mixture and sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Pour heavy cream over the potatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired. Enjoy!
Anchovy and Rosemary Focaccia
This savory focaccia combines the salty goodness of anchovies with the piney flavor of rosemary, perfect for a quick snack or side dish. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is a great way to elevate your Italian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 12 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead dough on floured surface for 10 minutes.
4. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down dough and shape into a rectangle.
6. Sprinkle rosemary, anchovies, and balsamic vinegar (if using) evenly over the dough.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Anchovy and Lemon Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with the salty, tangy flavors of anchovies and lemon. This recipe yields a juicy, aromatic bird that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, parsley, anchovies, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-60 minutes
Anchovy and Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Elevate your seafood game with this rich and flavorful Anchovy and Garlic Shrimp Scampi recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. The bold flavors of anchovies and garlic pair perfectly with succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add anchovies and cook until dissolved, about 30 seconds.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Anchovy and Eggplant Caponata
A classic Sicilian relish, Anchovy and Eggplant Caponata is a flavorful condiment perfect for topping pasta dishes, pizza, or using as a dip. This recipe combines the savory taste of anchovies with the meaty texture of eggplant.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– 2 anchovy fillets, finely minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush both sides of eggplant slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the eggplant in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a large skillet, combine garlic, capers, anchovy fillets, and chopped parsley (if using). Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Once eggplant is roasted, let it cool slightly before adding to the skillet with the anchovy mixture.
6. Simmer the Caponata for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Anchovy and Cabbage Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the pungency of anchovies with the crunch of cabbage, creating a unique and flavorful stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4-6 anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften (about 4 minutes).
4. Add the anchovy fillets, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Anchovy and Herb Compound Butter
This rich and savory compound butter is a perfect accompaniment to warm bread, roasted vegetables, or as a spread for crackers. The combination of salty anchovies, fresh herbs, and creamy butter creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons anchovy fillets, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, cream the softened butter with a fork until light and fluffy.
2. Add the minced anchovies, parsley, and chives to the butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Shape the mixture into a log or roll, wrapping in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply slice and serve.
Anchovy and Caramelized Onion Tart
This tart is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors, with the richness of anchovies balanced by the deep caramelization of onions. It’s an excellent side dish or appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 6-8 anchovy fillets, rinsed and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Spread the anchovy fillets evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges.
5. Spoon the caramelized onions over the anchovies, making sure to stay within the borders.
6. Fold the pastry edges up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Anchovy and Kale Caesar Wrap
This recipe brings together the savory flavors of anchovies and kale in a crispy wrap. Perfect as a snack or light meal, this flavorful wrap is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh kale
– 2 tablespoons anchovy fillets (rinsed and finely chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine kale, anchovy fillets, and garlic.
3. Spread Caesar dressing evenly on the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Top with kale mixture, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and wrap is crispy.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Anchovy and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the savory flavor of anchovies with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6 oz) anchovy fillets in oil, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the anchovies; cook, stirring occasionally, until dissolved into the pot liquid, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Anchovy and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the salty, umami flavor of anchovies with the sweet, chewy texture of sun-dried tomatoes to create a rich and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped anchovies and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the anchovy-tomato mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Anchovy and Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Elevate your snack game with this unexpected yet addictive dip, featuring the brininess of anchovies and the sweetness of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets in oil, rinsed and chopped
– 1 roasted red pepper, peeled and chopped (see note)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red pepper for 30-40 minutes or until charred, then peel.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the chopped anchovies, olives, and roasted red pepper.
4. Add the softened cream cheese and lemon juice; mix until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (not including roasting time)
Summary
Discover a world of flavors with these 20 savory anchovy recipes! From classic pasta dishes to innovative appetizers, anchovies add a salty, umami depth that elevates any dish. Try spaghetti with garlic anchovy sauce, Caesar salad with homemade dressing, or grilled pizza with arugula and anchovies. Or, get creative with anchovy-stuffed peppers, butter steak, or even a flavorful herb compound butter. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping appetizer, these recipes are sure to impress.
Leave a Reply