Zesty Amalfi Lemon, Chilli & Anchovy Spaghetti Recipe – A Burst of Italian Flavors in Just 25 Mins

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Amalfi Lemon, Chilli & Anchovy Spaghetti: A Bright and Zesty Dish

If you’re looking for a fresh, tangy twist to your pasta nights, this Amalfi Lemon, Chilli & Anchovy Spaghetti recipe is your answer! It’s packed with the bold flavors of lemon zest, a slight kick from the chilli, and the umami depth of anchovies. With its vibrant, fragrant aroma, this pasta dish is an ode to the simple yet sophisticated Italian cuisine that transports you straight to the sunny Amalfi coast.

I stumbled upon this delightful recipe in a Facebook group called Family Cook Recipes, where passionate home cooks share their best recipes. The simplicity and rich flavor of this dish caught my eye, and now, I’m thrilled to share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What’s truly special about this dish is how effortlessly it combines flavors. The bright citrus of the lemons harmonizes with the mild heat of the chilli, while the anchovies melt into the oil, creating a savory base. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights but fancy enough for weekend dinners with friends. Plus, it only takes 25 minutes from start to finish!

A Glimpse into Its Italian Roots

This recipe draws inspiration from the sun-soaked coastal region of Amalfi, Italy, where lemons grow in abundance. Known for their vibrant color and intense flavor, Amalfi lemons are a key ingredient in many dishes from the area. The anchovy, a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, adds a salty depth to balance the tartness of the lemon. It’s a dish that represents the beauty of Italian simplicity—letting fresh, quality ingredients shine.

Amalfi Lemon, Chilli & Anchovy Spaghetti Recipe

Ingredients:

• 14 oz (400g) spaghetti
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 red chilli, finely chopped
• 6 anchovy fillets, chopped
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta, making sure to save 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and finely chopped red chilli. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add the anchovies: Stir in the chopped anchovy fillets and cook for another minute. The anchovies should melt into the oil, creating a rich, savory base.
4. Combine with pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the pan, along with the lemon zest and juice. Toss well to ensure the pasta is coated in the lemony, anchovy-infused oil.
5. Adjust the sauce: If the sauce feels too thick, stir in some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and bring everything together.
6. Season and garnish: Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
7. Serve: Plate the pasta and serve immediately. Enjoy the bright, zesty flavors with each bite!

Cooking Tips:

• Anchovy flavor balance: If you’re new to anchovies, don’t be afraid! When cooked, they dissolve into the oil and provide a savory umami flavor rather than a strong fishy taste.
• Spice level: Adjust the amount of chilli to suit your spice preference. For a mild version, reduce the amount of chilli or remove the seeds.
• Lemon variety: If you can find Amalfi lemons, they’re the best for this dish due to their rich flavor. However, any fresh, vibrant lemons will work.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the anchovies for capers to add a similar salty depth to the dish while keeping it vegetarian.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti to enjoy this dish without the gluten.

This Amalfi Lemon, Chilli & Anchovy Spaghetti is perfect when served with a light side salad or a glass of crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the citrusy notes. Its bright, tangy flavor and quick preparation make it ideal for those days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a comment, share it with your friends, and follow for more mouth-watering recipes! Special thanks to the Family Cook Recipes Facebook Group for sharing this gem of a recipe!