Garlic-Infused Whole Roasted Anchovies
Nutritional value per serving
Calories150kcal
Carbs1gram
Fat7gram
Protein20gram
Ingredients
- Fresh whole anchovies (ask for firm, shiny fish with a fresh sea smell)400 g
- Garlic cloves, peeled4 pieces
- Extra virgin olive oil (choose a good quality oil with fresh fruity notes)3 tbsp
- Fresh parsley, chopped2 tbsp
- Fresh lemon juice1 tbsp
- Sea salt1 tsp
- Black pepper, freshly groundto taste n/a
This recipe shows you how to roast whole anchovies with a fragrant garlic infusion, creating a flavorful and healthy dish that is easy to prepare for seafood lovers of all skill levels. Roasting enhances the anchovies' natural flavors while garlic adds a savory depth. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $8 USD / €7 / £6 / ₹600 for about 4 servings. Each serving has roughly 150 kcal, making it a light and delicious appetizer or main course option. This dish is gluten-free and low-carb, with mild complexity and a quick total cooking time of about 25 minutes including preparation.
Preparation instructions
Preheat the Oven
1Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). This temperature ensures the anchovies roast quickly, retaining moisture and developing a nice, lightly crispy texture.
Prepare the Anchovies
2Rinse the anchovies under cold running water to remove any scales or impurities. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure they roast well, preventing sogginess. Removing excess moisture is key for proper roasting.
Prepare Garlic and Seasoning
3Slice the garlic cloves thinly to release their flavor during roasting. In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and half of the chopped parsley. This marinade will infuse the anchovies with bright and aromatic notes.
Arrange Anchovies and Add Garlic
4Place the anchovies in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or lightly oiled foil to prevent sticking. Distribute the sliced garlic evenly over the anchovies, so the garlic roasts gently with the fish seasoning.
Drizzle Marinade
5Drizzle the olive oil and lemon mixture evenly over the anchovies and garlic. This step enhances flavor and helps the anchovies roast beautifully.
Roast Anchovies
6Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 8-10 minutes. The anchovies are done when the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Since anchovies are small, overcooking may dry them out.
Check Doneness and Temperature
7Anchovies are safe to eat once fully cooked, but as a guideline, fish is generally safe at an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F). Use a food thermometer if available to check. Fully cooked anchovies will be firm and opaque.
Finish and Serve
8Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining fresh parsley over the anchovies for a bright finish, and let them rest for a couple minutes before serving. This rest helps flavors meld gently.
Cooking Tips
1If fresh anchovies aren’t available, you can use frozen anchovies; just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
2To avoid cross-contamination, always wash your hands and utensils thoroughly after handling raw fish.
3For a spicy twist, add a pinch of chili flakes to the olive oil marinade.
4Serve the roasted anchovies with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a delightful meal.
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Food thermometer (optional)
- Tongs or spatula
- Paper towels
Shopping List
- [ ] Fresh whole anchovies (400g) - ~$5: Choose firm fish with shiny skin and fresh ocean smell for best flavor and texture.
- [ ] Garlic (4 cloves) - ~$0.50: Look for firm bulbs with tight skin.
- [ ] Extra virgin olive oil (3 tbsp) - ~$1: Pick a good quality oil labeled cold-pressed for best aroma.
- [ ] Fresh parsley (a small bunch) - ~$0.60: Bright green and fresh leaves ensure good flavor.
- [ ] Lemon (for 1 tbsp juice) - ~$0.50: Choose lemons with firm skin and fragrant aroma.
- [ ] Sea salt - ~$0.20
- [ ] Black pepper - ~$0.20
Total cost: Approx. $8
FAQ
Can I use frozen anchovies for this recipe?
Yes, thaw frozen anchovies completely and pat them dry before roasting to ensure the best texture and flavor.
How do I know when the anchovies are fully cooked?
Roasted anchovies are done when their flesh turns opaque and flakes easily with a fork. If using a food thermometer, an internal temperature of 63°C (145°F) indicates safety.
Is it safe to eat the anchovies whole with bones?
Yes, anchovies have tiny soft bones that become edible when cooked. Roasting softens them and they provide a pleasant texture.
How can I avoid fishy odor in my kitchen?
Make sure the fish is fresh and rinse well, then pat dry to remove excess moisture. Roasting at a high temperature quickly helps reduce lingering odors.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add chili flakes, thyme, or rosemary for additional flavor. Just add them to the olive oil marinade before roasting.