why make this recipe
Butter Pasta with Anchovies is a simple yet delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. It combines the rich flavors of butter and anchovies to create a savory sauce that beautifully coats the pasta. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without much fuss. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a tasty dinner that’s both satisfying and satisfying to your taste buds.
how to make Butter Pasta with Anchovies
Ingredients:
- Pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
- Anchovies
- Butter
- Garlic (optional)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
- Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes!
- While your pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, letting it get all bubbly and delicious.
- If you’re using garlic, toss in some minced garlic at this point, sautéing it for about a minute until your kitchen smells incredible!
- Next, add the anchovies to the skillet. Break them up with a spoon until they dissolve into that beautiful, buttery sauce.
- After draining your pasta (don’t forget to reserve a bit of that pasta water!), add it straight to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is coated in that heavenly anchovy butter. If it looks a bit dry, feel free to add in some of that reserved pasta water to get your desired consistency.
- Serve your dish hot, and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
how to serve Butter Pasta with Anchovies
Serve Butter Pasta with Anchovies hot, straight from the skillet. You can add a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some chopped parsley on top for extra flavor and a lovely presentation. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
how to store Butter Pasta with Anchovies
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta can last for about 2-3 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or more butter to help bring it back to life.
tips to make Butter Pasta with Anchovies
- Make sure to reserve some pasta water; it helps to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- If you’re not a fan of anchovies, you can simply omit them; the butter sauce is still tasty on its own.
- Experiment with different types of pasta or add veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes to make it more colorful and nutritious.
variation
You could try adding chili flakes for a bit of heat or capers for an extra burst of flavor. Some people also like to add lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like! Spaghetti and linguine work well, but penne or fettuccine are also great options.
Is this dish suitable for a family meal?
Absolutely! It’s quick to make and very satisfying, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the sauce ahead of time and cook the pasta when you’re ready to eat. Just make sure to store the sauce and pasta separately in the fridge.
Butter Pasta with Anchovies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package Pasta (spaghetti or linguine) Use according to package instructions.
- 4 fillets Anchovies Canned anchovies work best.
- 4 tablespoons Butter Use unsalted or salted according to preference.
- 2 cloves Garlic (optional) Minced for added flavor.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional) Freshly grated for serving.
- 2 tablespoons Parsley Chopped, for garnish.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Making the Sauce
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until bubbly.
- If using, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the anchovies to the skillet, breaking them up with a spoon until they dissolve into the butter.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- After draining the pasta, reserve some pasta water, then add the pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Serving
- Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.