Anchovies alla pizzaiola

Anchovies alla pizzaiola is a simple yet flavorful dish that blends the taste of the sea with the distinctive flavor of pizzaiola-style preparations. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 500g of cleaned fresh anchovies
• 400g of peeled tomatoes
• 2 cloves of garlic
• Oregano to taste
• Salt to taste
• Red chili pepper to taste (optional)
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Preparation

1. Start by rinsing the anchovies under cold running water and gently drying them.
2. In a large pan, heat a generous swirl of extra virgin olive oil and add the peeled garlic cloves, letting them turn golden.
3. Remove the garlic and pour in the peeled tomatoes, lightly crushing them with a wooden spoon. Let it cook for about 10 minutes over medium heat.
4. Add oregano, salt, and red chili pepper to the sauce and stir.
5. Arrange the anchovies in the pan with the sauce, covering them well. Cover with a lid and let cook on low heat for about 5-7 minutes.
6. Turn off the heat and let the anchovies rest in the sauce for another 5 minutes with the pan covered, so they are well-flavored.
7. Serve hot, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

This dish perfectly marries the intensity of the anchovies with the freshness of tomato and oregano, creating a balance of flavors that recalls pizza, indeed in the Italian style. Additionally, it is traditionally served as a main course, but it can also be an excellent appetizer if served on toasted bread croutons.