Spaghetti with Zucchini Flowers, Anchovies & Toasted Breadcrumbs

Spaghetti with Zucchini Flowers, Anchovies & Toasted Breadcrumbs

This simple, fragrant recipe captures the freshness of zucchini blossoms, the savory depth of anchovies, and the irresistible crunch of golden toasted breadcrumbs. Perfect for a light yet flavorful lunch, it comes together in less than half an hour and makes the most of seasonal ingredients.

🍽️ Serves: 4

⏲️ Time: 20 minutes

🧺 Ingredients:

• 500 g spaghetti

• 2 garlic cloves

• 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 100 gr breadcrumbs

• 40 zucchini blossoms

• 6 anchovy fillets

• 4 tbsp fresh chopped parsley

• Salt, to taste
  

🥣 Instructions:

1. Prepare the zucchini flowers

   Gently remove the outer leaves and the pistil from each blossom. Rinse carefully and pat dry with kitchen paper to avoid tearing. 👉 Click here to find out more for the Zucchini Flowers.
   

2. Cook the pasta

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
   

3. Toast the breadcrumbs

   In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil, add the breadcrumbs and toast over medium heat until golden, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Set aside.
   

4. Make the sauce

   In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil and add the finely chopped garlic. Add a splash of water to prevent it from burning. Stir in the anchovy fillets and parsley, letting the anchovies melt into the oil (about 1 minute). Add the zucchini blossoms (whole or sliced into strips) and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until they soften slightly. Remove from heat.
   

5. Combine

   Drain the spaghetti and transfer it directly into the skillet with the sauce. Add lemon zest and toss well. Stir in most of the toasted breadcrumbs, saving a little for garnish.
   

6. Serve and enjoy

   Plate the spaghetti, top with the remaining breadcrumbs, and finish with a drizzle of raw olive oil if desired.

💡 Tips:

• For a show-stopping presentation, keep the zucchini blossoms whole. For even flavor distribution, slice them into strips.

• For a stronger lemon aroma, add the zest directly to the breadcrumbs during toasting — it will release all its fragrance and give the dish a bright citrus kick.