Anchovy Capers Pasta
A quick and savory Italian pasta featuring anchovies, capers, and garlic, tossed with spaghetti and fresh parsley. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal with heart-healthy fats and protein-rich flavor.
Equipment
- Large pot (2–3 quarts)
- Skillet or frying pan (10–12 inches)
- Cooking spoon or tongs
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 2 oz anchovy fillets rinsed and roughly chopped
- 1½ tbsp capers rinsed and drained
- ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves thinly sliced
- Optional: red chili flakes to taste
- Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Fill a large pot with 2–3 quarts of water and add ½ tablespoon of salt to enhance flavor. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking together. Reserve about ¼ cup of pasta water before draining, as this starchy liquid will help create a silky sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Infuse Olive Oil with Garlic: Place a 10–12 inch skillet over low heat and pour in 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the thinly sliced garlic cloves to the skillet. Gently cook the garlic, stirring occasionally, for 2–3 minutes until it turns a light golden brown. Take care not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Once perfectly golden, use a slotted spoon to remove the garlic slices from the oil and set them aside for later, leaving the flavorful garlic-infused oil in the skillet.
- Melt Anchovies into the Oil: To the same skillet with garlic-infused oil, add the rinsed and roughly chopped anchovy fillets. Stir gently over low heat for about 30 seconds to allow the anchovies to dissolve into the oil. The anchovies will soften and break down, creating a rich, savory base that forms the umami backbone of the pasta.
- Add Capers and Seasoning: Immediately add the rinsed and drained capers to the skillet. Stir for a few seconds to combine their briny, tangy flavor with the anchovy oil. At this stage, sprinkle in red chili flakes if you want a hint of heat. Then add the chopped fresh parsley and stir briefly to distribute the herbs evenly, creating a fragrant, colorful base for the pasta.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Transfer the drained spaghetti into the skillet, tossing it carefully to coat the noodles evenly with the anchovy, caper, and parsley mixture. Add the golden garlic slices back into the pan, gently mixing them throughout the pasta. If the pasta feels dry, gradually add a few tablespoons of the reserved pasta water, stirring constantly until the desired consistency is reached. This starchy water helps the sauce cling to the noodles beautifully.
- Finish with Parmesan (Optional): For extra richness and flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta while still hot. Toss gently to combine, ensuring every strand of spaghetti is coated with the cheesy, savory goodness. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more chili flakes or a pinch of salt if desired.
- Plate and Serve: Divide the pasta evenly onto serving plates. Optionally, garnish with a few extra capers or a sprig of parsley for presentation. Serve immediately while warm, accompanied by a light salad or crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Anchovy Quality Matters: Use high-quality anchovy fillets packed in olive oil for the best flavor. Rinsing them briefly removes excess salt while keeping the savory umami taste.
- Capers Add Briny Punch: Rinse and drain capers to balance their tangy intensity. This prevents them from overpowering the delicate pasta flavors.
- Garlic Timing Is Crucial: Cook garlic slowly over low heat to infuse oil without burning. Golden slices create a subtle nutty aroma.
- Pasta Water Magic: Always reserve some pasta water; its starchiness helps bind the sauce and coat noodles perfectly.
- Optional Ingredients: Red chili flakes provide heat, while Parmesan adds richness. Both can be adjusted based on personal preference.
