Anchovy Olive Pasta Sauce Recipe

This vibrant Anchovy Olive Pasta Sauce recipe yields about 4 cups – enough to coat 1 pound of your favorite pasta. Salty anchovies melt into a rich, savory sauce, perfectly complemented by garlic and olives. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese elevates this simple yet elegant dish to new heights. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's the perfect weeknight meal!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 30 mins
Calories 391.1 kcal
Protein 14g
Rating 4.0 (1 Reviews)
Anchovy Olive Pasta Sauce

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Anchovy Olive Pasta Sauce

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Anchovies Packed In Oil
  • Garlic Cloves
  • 1/2 small finely chopped yellow onion
  • Black Olives
  • Green Olives
  • Capers
  • Dried Basil
  • Italian Seasoning
  • Black Pepper
  • Tomatoes
  • Tomato Paste
  • Water
  • Marsala
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Anchovy Olive Pasta Sauce

  1. Heat 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Add 1/4 cup packed oil-cured anchovy fillets and cook, stirring frequently to break them down into a paste, for 3-5 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1/2 small finely chopped yellow onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives (halved), 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
  5. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Toss with 1 pound cooked pasta and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

51 g

Sugar

42g

Fat

14g

Carbs

7g