Alici alla Pizzaiola (Anchovies Pizzaiola)
Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh anchovies (alici) | 500g |
| Cherry tomatoes (pomodorini ciliegino) | 200g |
| Oregano | 2 teaspoons |
| Extra virgin olive oil (olio extravergine d’oliva) | 50g |
| Garlic (aglio) | 1 clove |
| Fine salt (sale fino) | to taste |
| Black pepper (pepe nero) | to taste |
Instructions
To prepare the Alici alla Pizzaiola, begin by thoroughly cleaning the anchovies. First, rinse them under cold water to remove any remaining scales or dirt. Afterward, carefully open each fish by cutting along the spine and removing the internal organs. Then, delicately remove the central bone, leaving the fillet intact.
Next, wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them into quarters. This step will allow the tomatoes to release their juices during cooking, adding flavor and moisture to the dish. Season the tomatoes with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
In a baking dish, arrange the anchovy fillets in a single layer. Top the fillets with the prepared cherry tomatoes, making sure to distribute them evenly. Sprinkle the oregano over the tomatoes and anchovies, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil generously over the dish, allowing the oil to coat the anchovies and tomatoes. Add another light sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. For an extra burst of flavor, finely chop the garlic and scatter it over the top.
Now, transfer the baking dish onto a baking tray, and place it in a preheated static oven at 220°C (428°F). Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the anchovies are cooked through and the tomatoes have softened and caramelized.
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a perfect balance of richness and freshness.
Serve your Alici alla Pizzaiola hot, ensuring each serving includes both anchovies and the flavorful, juicy tomatoes. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a delightful and satisfying meal.
Enjoy your delicious Alici alla Pizzaiola, a perfect combination of Mediterranean flavors that brings together the richness of anchovies and the brightness of fresh tomatoes, all brought to life with olive oil and oregano.
