Crostino with Marinated Anchovies

Name: Crostino with Marinated Anchovies
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 20
Ingredients: Anchovies already cleaned and frozen 8.8 oz; Burrata cheese 1 cup; Baguette 1; Lemon peel to taste; Orange peel to taste; Lemon juice 3 ½ tbsp; Orange juice 1.7 oz; Garlic 2 cloves; Red onions 1; Wild fennel to taste; White wine vinegar 2 tsp; Extra virgin olive oil 5 tbsp; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; Mint 1 bunch

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Difficulty: Very easy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Makes: 20 pieces
Cost: Low
Note plus the anchovies' marinating time (about 1 hour)

PRESENTATION

Recipe by
Sebastian Fitarau

Crostino con alici marinate is all about Southern Italy vibes. Seriously good stuff. Simple ingredients really shine here. You’ve got these tender anchovy fillets marinated in a tangy mix of orange and lemon—plus some refreshing mint. And the sauce? It’s like a burst of tangy citrus in every bite. Then, there's a sharp kick from raw onion and garlic, and fennel sneaks in a subtle herbal hint. Topped with creamy burrata, each crostino becomes this awesome blend of bold and gentle flavors. Fans of marinated anchovies will appreciate how the mint and citrus enhance the flavor without being too much. Down in Campania and Calabria, anchovy dishes are everywhere, but this one is light and fresh, never heavy.

In Southern Italy, party tables are full of easy appetizers. And look, this seafood crostini is a favorite. Pretty much. Right alongside classics like 'alici ammollicate' and 'alici alla pizzaiola.' What makes it special? It’s that moist and crispy texture. The bread gets toasted just enough to stand up to the juicy toppings, keeping a good crunch. For sure. Whether friends swing by for brunch or you need a quick starter, this snack is ready—really fast! It’s a touch of tradition with a twist, thanks to the burrata and mint marinade.

Perfect with a cold drink or as part of a Mediterranean spread, it’s ideal for anyone who loves Italian appetizers. Or, if you're on the hunt for new anchovy recipes. Hits that sweet spot. For real. If you’re into mixing up bruschetta variations, crostino con alici marinate could totally become your go-to for golden afternoons and easy gatherings. Its balance of flavors and textures? Really, it’s a standout choice for any occasion.

How to prepare Crostino with Marinated Anchovies

To prepare the crostino with marinated anchovies, first slice the onion 1 and the garlic 2. Finely chop the fennel 3.

In a bowl, pour the oil, add the white wine vinegar 4, the grated zest of an orange and a lemon 5. Add the juice of one orange 6.

Add the juice of one lemon 7, season with salt and pepper 8, and mix 9.

Place the cleaned and butterflied anchovies in a baking dish 10, lay the onion and garlic on top 11. Pour the previously prepared mixture over the anchovies. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for at least one hour 12.

Slice the baguette 13, transfer the slices onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper, drizzle with a little oil 14 and toast in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes, or until golden 15.

Meanwhile, remove the anchovies from the marinade 16. Strain the rest 17 to obtain the marinade liquid 18. Retrieve and set aside the onions for decoration. Add fresh mint to the marinade liquid and blend until you get a smooth sauce.

Place the crostini on a serving plate and top with hand-torn burrata, lay the anchovies on top 19. Decorate with onions and fennel, and finish with the mint marinade 20. The crostino with marinated anchovies is ready to be enjoyed 21.

Storage

It's advisable to consume the crostini immediately after assembling. You can prepare the marinated anchovies in advance and store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for a maximum of 2-3 days.