Armatore Colatura di Alici Riserva is a traditional Italian anchovy extract from Cetara, the historic fishing village on the Amalfi Coast. Known as the "gold of Cetara," this concentrated amber-colored condiment is prized by professional chefs for its remarkable ability to enhance flavor. From Caesar salad dressing and vinaigrettes to pasta, vegetables and seafood, just a small amount adds rich umami depth to everyday recipes.
Presented in a generous 23.7 fl oz (700ml) bottle, this format is ideal for restaurants, professional kitchens and home cooks who regularly use colatura as a savory seasoning.
A Chef's Secret for Caesar Dressing and More
Anchovies are a classic ingredient in Caesar salad dressing, responsible for much of its signature savory flavor. Colatura di Alici provides a convenient way to incorporate that depth without handling whole anchovy fillets. Whisk a small amount into Caesar dressing with lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, olive oil and Parmesan cheese, adjusting gradually to taste.
Beyond Caesar salad, colatura can enhance homemade vinaigrettes, marinades, seafood sauces, roasted vegetables and even simple sautéed greens. Its concentrated flavor makes it especially useful in professional kitchens, where a few drops can bring balance and complexity to a finished dish.
The Gold of Cetara
Colatura di Alici is a celebrated specialty of Campania, produced through the slow maturation of anchovies and sea salt. Its history is deeply connected to the fishing traditions of Cetara, where local artisans have preserved anchovies for generations. The resulting liquid is intensely savory, aromatic and traditionally used to season food rather than as a sauce on its own.
Traditional Production and Aging
Armatore selects anchovies caught during spring in the waters of the Amalfi Coast. The fish are cleaned and layered with sea salt inside traditional chestnut barrels, where they mature slowly. This careful process develops the complex flavor and concentrated character of Colatura di Alici Riserva.
How to Use
Use colatura in Caesar dressing, vinaigrettes, marinades, seafood preparations and vegetable dishes. For a traditional Italian preparation, combine it with extra virgin olive oil, garlic and parsley to dress spaghetti. It can also be added to roasted potatoes, legumes, tomato sauces and broths for additional savory depth.
Cooking Tip: Colatura is naturally salty and intensely flavored. Start with a small amount, taste before adding more and reduce other sources of salt accordingly. Add toward the end of cooking whenever possible to preserve its distinctive aroma.
About Armatore
Armatore is a seafood producer based in Cetara, Italy, with fishing roots dating to 1973. Its specialties reflect the maritime traditions of the Amalfi Coast, including carefully processed anchovies, traditional colatura and Mediterranean seafood preserves.
Product Details
Brand: Armatore
Product: Colatura di Alici Riserva
English Description: Italian Anchovy Extract
Origin: Cetara, Campania, Italy
Net Volume: 23.7 fl oz (700ml)
Suggested Uses: Caesar salad dressing, vinaigrettes, pasta, seafood, vegetables and professional cooking
