Description
This Fettuccine with Spicy Anchovy Bread Crumbs recipe is a quick and flavorful dinner option that combines perfectly toasted panko bread crumbs, savory anchovies, zesty lemon, and tender pasta. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish balances textures and bold flavors for an elevated yet simple meal.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- Kosher salt (as needed)
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine
For the Sauce and Topping
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 to 10 oil-packed anchovy fillets (coarsely chopped)
- Finely grated zest of ½ lemon
- Juice of ½ lemon (or more to taste)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, as needed)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with heavily salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until just slightly underdone, shy of al dente, so it can finish cooking in the sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Toast the Bread Crumbs: In a 10-inch skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko bread crumbs and stir frequently, toasting them until they turn a deep golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once toasted, transfer them to a separate bowl to keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: Using the same skillet, return it to medium heat and add the butter, chopped anchovies, and lemon zest. Stir continuously as the butter melts and use a fork to mash and break up the anchovies until fully integrated into a savory sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta back to the skillet with the anchovy mixture. Toss to coat and let the pasta cook in the sauce briefly for about 1 minute until fully heated through and well coated. Remove the skillet from heat, then stir in the fresh lemon juice and the toasted bread crumbs. Toss to evenly distribute flavors and textures.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top to add freshness and color. Serve immediately while warm for the best experience.
Notes
- Cooking pasta slightly underdone ensures it absorbs the sauce and finishes cooking perfectly.
- Adjust the amount of anchovies based on your preference for saltiness and umami intensity.
- The toasted bread crumbs provide a crunchy, spicy texture contrast to the creamy pasta.
- If lemon juice is too tart, start with less and adjust to taste.
- Fresh parsley garnish is optional but brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.
