Anchovy Tartlets: A Savory Delight for Your Antipasti Table
Category: Antipasti
Servings: 4
These delicious anchovy tartlets, also known as Tortino di Alici, make for an irresistible antipasti that blends the rich, umami flavor of anchovies with tender layers of potato, fresh tomatoes, and a delicate hint of lemon zest. The layers are carefully assembled and baked to perfection, creating a dish that is both elegant and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Anchovies (fresh or salted) | 600g |
| Potatoes | 350g |
| Ripe tomatoes | 150g |
| Olive oil | 30g |
| Fresh thyme | 2g |
| Lemon zest | 1 lemon |
| Sea salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
Preparation Steps:
-
Boil the Potatoes:
Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot with plenty of water. Bring to a boil and cook until they are tender, about 15–20 minutes. Once cooked, drain the water, allow them to cool slightly, and then slice them into 1 cm thick rounds. -
Prepare the Anchovies:
While the potatoes are cooking, carefully remove the heads and intestines of the anchovies, then extract the central bone, ensuring they remain intact (without cutting them in half). Lay them on a plate lined with absorbent paper to remove any excess moisture. -
Slice the Tomatoes:
Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and slice them into rounds, making sure the slices are about the same thickness as the potato slices, approximately 1 cm thick. -
Chop the Thyme:
Finely chop the fresh thyme leaves to release their aromatic essence, which will infuse the dish with a fragrant herbal note. -
Prepare the Tartlet Molds:
Lightly grease individual tartlet molds (9 cm in diameter and 5 cm high) with olive oil, using a pastry brush to coat the interior evenly. -
Assemble the Tartlets:
Begin by lining the molds with the anchovy fillets. Arrange them vertically along the sides of the mold, overlapping slightly to fully cover the sides of the mold. This will require approximately 10 anchovy fillets per tartlet. Once in place, season with a pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a zest of lemon. -
Layer the Ingredients:
Add a slice of potato at the center of the anchovies, followed by a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and some chopped thyme. Next, place a slice of tomato on top, then another slice of potato. Repeat the process, layering with alternating slices of potato, tomato, and seasoning as you go. Finally, fold the anchovy fillets over the top to cover the layers, creating a neat parcel. -
Bake the Tartlets:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (or 160°C for a fan-assisted oven). Place the tartlets on a baking tray and bake for 10 minutes, until the tops are golden and the layers are heated through. If using a fan oven, reduce the temperature to 160°C and bake for 7–8 minutes instead. -
Serve:
Once baked, remove the tartlets from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before gently turning them out onto plates. Serve the anchovy tartlets warm, garnished with a few extra sprigs of fresh thyme or a dash of lemon zest if desired.
Serving Tips:
These anchovy tartlets are perfect as a starter or appetizer, adding a sophisticated touch to any meal. Pair them with a crisp white wine, such as a Vermentino or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the salty richness of the anchovies and the earthy potatoes. For an even more delightful experience, serve them alongside a fresh mixed salad or a light citrus dressing to balance the flavors.
Nutritional Information (Approximate):
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 tartlet) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
These nutritional values are based on estimates and may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and types used. The dish provides a good balance of healthy fats from the olive oil and anchovies, along with carbohydrates from the potatoes.
Conclusion:
The Tortino di Alici is an exquisite addition to any antipasti spread, offering a perfect balance of rich, savory anchovies, tender potatoes, and fresh tomatoes. It is a dish that exemplifies the simplicity and elegance of Mediterranean cuisine, allowing each ingredient to shine in its own right. With minimal preparation and just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is both flavorful and visually stunning.
