DELICIOUS ANCHOVY SQUARES ON HOMEMADE GENOVESE FOCACCIA WITH SALSA VERDE

Weekend baking calls for this quick and tasty creation made from a simple Genovese focaccia base topped with flavorful anchovies and vibrant salsa verde. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, these bite-sized squares burst with fresh herbs, capers, and a hint of garlic.

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🕒 Prep Time: 20 min (+1 hour resting)

🍽️ Yield: 15 squares

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Ingredients

• 1 simple Genovese focaccia (homemade or store-bought)
• 15 anchovy fillets in oil
• 1 small bunch fresh parsley
• 5 large basil leaves
• 1 small garlic clove
• 1 heaping tsp capers in vinegar
• 2 tsp vinegar (from capers or white wine vinegar)
• ½ small red onion, finely diced
• Olive oil (for blending and drizzling)
• Freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prepare the salsa verde ahead for best flavor.
2. In a food processor or with an immersion blender, combine roughly chopped parsley, basil leaves, and garlic. Add olive oil gradually while blending until a light, spreadable paste forms.
3. Transfer the herb paste to a bowl. Finely chop the capers and fold them into the salsa. Add freshly ground black pepper and vinegar from the capers. Mix well. Taste and adjust salt and acidity—add lemon juice if you want extra brightness.
4. Arrange anchovy fillets side by side in a shallow dish. Spoon enough salsa verde over them to cover (you don’t need to use all the salsa at once; it stores well refrigerated for future use).
5. Sprinkle finely diced red onion over the anchovies. Let sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour or refrigerate longer for deeper flavors.
   Tip: If anchovies are very salty, soak them briefly in water, changing the water a few times to desalinate.
6. Cut the focaccia into 15 bite-sized squares. Place one anchovy fillet (with some salsa) on each piece. If needed, add a little more salsa to help it stick. Secure each with a toothpick.
7. Drizzle a little olive oil from the salsa verde over the serving plate. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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💡 Tips

• Salsa verde improves in flavor after resting.
• Use fresh herbs for the brightest taste.
• Adjust vinegar and lemon juice to balance acidity.
• Soaking anchovies helps reduce excess saltiness if desired.

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🍽️ Perfect For

• Appetizers and finger foods
• Party platters and casual gatherings
• Pairing with wine or cocktails

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📝 Final Thoughts

These anchovy-topped focaccia squares combine Mediterranean freshness with savory depth, making for an irresistible snack or starter. The homemade salsa verde adds herbaceous brightness, elevating simple ingredients to a delicious treat.