Italian Recipes

Italian Friselle with Cherry Tomatoes, Anchovies, and Basil

Published
Jan 2, 2025
Reading time
2 min
Collection
Italian Recipes
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Category: Appetizers
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Friselle 4 pieces
Cherry tomatoes 400g
Extra virgin olive oil 30g
Fresh basil 6 leaves
Salt 3g
Anchovies (or alici) 20g
Garlic 1 clove
Oregano To taste
Red chili pepper 1
Black pepper To taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Friselle:
    Begin by softening the friselle in a bowl of cold water. Make sure they absorb just enough moisture to become tender but not soggy. Once softened, arrange them on a plate.

  2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
    Wash the cherry tomatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Once cleaned, cut them into small pieces and transfer them into a bowl.

  3. Season the Tomatoes:
    Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the chopped tomatoes, add a pinch of salt, a sprinkle of oregano, and toss to combine. Lightly crush half of the garlic clove and add it to the tomatoes, allowing the flavors to infuse. Mix everything together to ensure the seasoning is well distributed.

  4. Prepare the Anchovies and Chili:
    Remove any bones from the anchovies and chop them into small pieces. For the chili pepper, slice it open and remove the seeds, then cut it into thin strips.

  5. Assemble the Dish:
    Spoon the tomato and anchovy mixture onto the softened friselle, distributing it evenly. Use a spoon to help spread the toppings so each frisella is generously covered.

  6. Finish the Dish:
    Garnish with fresh basil leaves, add the sliced red chili for a bit of heat, and sprinkle with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

  7. Serve:
    Your Friselle with cherry tomatoes and anchovies are now ready to serve! These make a perfect light appetizer or snack for any occasion.

This simple yet flavorful Italian appetizer is full of fresh, vibrant ingredients and a wonderful balance of savory, tangy, and spicy notes. Perfect for a summer gathering or an Italian-inspired dinner!