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Introduction:
Neapolitan cuisine is renowned for its simplicity and vibrant flavors, often using fresh, high-quality ingredients to create unforgettable dishes. One such delight is marinated anchovies, a dish that brings the salty tang of the sea into a harmonious blend with vinegar, garlic, herbs, and olive oil. This classic Neapolitan recipe for marinated anchovies is easy to prepare and is perfect as an appetizer or an addition to any Mediterranean-style meal. Marinated anchovies are commonly enjoyed as a fresh, flavorful treat, offering a balance of acidity and savory goodness. Let's dive into this easy yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
500g fresh anchovies
100ml white wine vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
100ml extra virgin olive oil
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 small bunch fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon zest (optional, for extra freshness)
Instructions:
Prepare the anchovies: Rinse the anchovies under cold water to remove any sand or impurities. Carefully fillet the anchovies by removing the head, bones, and tail. If you're unfamiliar with cleaning anchovies, you can ask your fishmonger to do it for you.
Create the marinade: In a shallow dish or a bowl, combine the white wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic, red onion, parsley, oregano, and red chili flakes. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture until well combined.
Marinate the anchovies: Lay the filleted anchovies in a flat dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the anchovies are well coated in the mixture. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
Serve: Once the anchovies are marinated, they’re ready to be served. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of freshness.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving suggestion: Marinated anchovies are fantastic served on their own as an appetizer with crusty bread or paired with a fresh green salad. They can also be used as a topping for bruschetta or added to pasta dishes for a Mediterranean twist.
Storing: You can store the marinated anchovies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can store them in olive oil, ensuring that they’re completely submerged. This will help preserve the anchovies for a longer period.
Serving temperature: It's best to serve marinated anchovies chilled, straight from the fridge, or at room temperature for a few minutes to allow the flavors to bloom.
Variants:
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