Description
This lemon pasta with anchovies and breadcrumbs is a vibrant, savory Italian-inspired dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Anchovies melt into garlic- and chili-infused olive oil to form a silky sauce, brightened with lemon and finished with crunchy toasted breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
- 200 g long pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti)
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, peeled and lightly pressed
- 4 anchovy fillets packed in oil, drained
- 1 small fresh red chili, thinly sliced, or 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 small organic lemon, finely zested and juiced
- 2 slices day-old baguette, toasted and processed into coarse crumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt for pasta water
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until very al dente, 1–2 minutes less than package instructions.
- Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Add pressed garlic and chili. Sauté gently until fragrant without browning.
- Add anchovy fillets and half the lemon zest. Reduce heat and break down anchovies with a wooden spoon until dissolved. Add a few drops of lemon juice.
- Transfer pasta directly into the pan. Add about half a ladle of pasta water. Toss over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes until coated. Add more water if needed to finish cooking.
- Turn off heat. Add most of the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, and remaining lemon zest. Toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra breadcrumbs, parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
- Anchovies add depth, not a strong fishy taste.
- Use fresh or dried chili to adjust spice level.
- Breadcrumbs can be made in advance and stored airtight.
- Add butter at the end for a richer sauce.
- For added veggies, stir in sautéed spinach or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (1/3 of recipe)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
