Mediterranean Anchovy Pasta

Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta
   Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. Create the anchovy sauce
   While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant but not browned, about 1-2 minutes. Add the anchovies and cook, stirring frequently until they begin to dissolve into the oil, about 2 minutes.
3. Add Mediterranean elements
   Add the capers and olives to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The mixture should be fragrant and savory.
4. Combine pasta and sauce
   Add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the anchovy sauce. Toss well to coat, adding small amounts of the reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.
5. Finish with fresh elements
   Remove the skillet from heat and add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and most of the chopped parsley (reserve some for garnish). Toss well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, keeping in mind that anchovies and capers are already quite salty.
6. Serve and garnish
   Divide the pasta among warmed plates. Sprinkle with the remaining parsley and toasted breadcrumbs if using. Serve immediately while hot.