The Pasta Atlasof Italy

Calabria / Pantry Pasta

Pasta con Mollica e Alici

Spaghetti with anchovy, chili, garlic, and toasted breadcrumbs, a southern pantry classic.

25 minutes Easy Serves 4 spaghetti

Method

  1. Toast breadcrumbs in olive oil until golden; set aside.
  2. Warm garlic, anchovy, and chili in more oil until anchovy dissolves.
  3. Cook spaghetti until al dente.
  4. Toss pasta with anchovy oil and pasta water.
  5. Add parsley and lemon zest if using.
  6. Top generously with toasted crumbs.
Cook's note: Keep crumbs separate until serving so they stay crisp.

Why this dish belongs to Calabria

Breadcrumbs are sometimes called poor man's cheese, but that undersells them: they bring crunch and roasted flavor.

Read the Calabria pasta history page

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