tania:
I love Prosciutto Crudo and it works so smoothly here. It's also one of the most approachable Italian dishes in terms of ingredients, prep and cookin...
Roman cuisine stands out for its ability to create extraordinary flavors from just a handful of meticulously chosen ingredients. Veal Saltimbocca is a shining example of this tradition—a dish whose name literally means "jump in your mouth," promising an explosion of taste with every bite.
This cherished classic combines paper-thin slices of veal, aromatic fresh sage, and the melt-in-your-mouth texture of Prosciutto Crudo. It’s important to select a Prosciutto that is young and delicately sweet, as overly aged varieties can overpower the delicate balance of flavors—an insight embraced by seasoned Roman cooks.
Among Rome's most iconic recipes—rivaling even Spaghetti alla Carbonara in fame—Saltimbocca is a dish that delivers maximum impact with minimal effort. Whether you’re seeking a show-stopping centerpiece for a family dinner or looking to bring a touch of Italian authenticity to your table, this recipe is an accessible and rewarding choice. Dive into this time-honored treasure and watch your guests savor every irresistible mouthful.
IngredientsTry it with...
Preparation
for 4 servings
Step
1
Of 3
Begin by rinsing the fresh sage leaves and gently drying them with kitchen paper. Set these aside, as well as a shallow bowl or plate filled with fine flour for dredging.
On a clean surface, lay out the thin veal cutlets. Place a dried sage leaf and a single slice of Prosciutto Crudo atop each cutlet. Gently press down with your fingers so that the sage and prosciutto adhere well to the veal—this classic composition is what gives Saltimbocca its signature aroma and taste.
Dredge each assembled cutlet in the prepared flour, ensuring that both sides are lightly but evenly coated and that the sage and prosciutto remain firmly attached. If necessary, secure the toppings with a wooden toothpick to prevent them from slipping during cooking.
Expert tip on veal: For the best texture and flavor, choose lean, tender veal cutlets ideally sliced from the hind leg. This cut provides the delicate quality that is the hallmark of authentic Saltimbocca.
Insight on Prosciutto Crudo: Opt for a younger, sweeter prosciutto to achieve perfect harmony; robust, aged varieties can dominate the dish and mask the subtlety of the veal and sage.
Step
2
Of 3
Heat a large nonstick sauté pan over medium flame. Add a light drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and immediately place the prepared veal cutlets in the pan, ensuring the prosciutto side is facing downward.
Allow the cutlets to cook undisturbed until a light golden crust forms. Carefully flip each cutlet, seasoning the side without prosciutto with a sprinkle of sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Traditional Saltimbocca relies on restraint with seasoning to let the ingredients shine.
Once both sides are beautifully seared and the prosciutto has crisped slightly, deglaze the pan by pouring in a generous splash of dry white wine. The wine will lift the caramelized bits and form the base of your savory sauce.
Step
3
Of 3
When most of the wine has evaporated and the sauce in the pan is slightly thickened, remove the cutlets and arrange them on warmed serving plates.
Add a knob of unsalted butter to the pan, swirling over low heat until the butter melts and emulsifies with the remaining pan juices, creating a glossy, creamy sauce. Immediately spoon this rich sauce over the plated Saltimbocca.
Serve the Saltimbocca alla Romana hot, ensuring each serving is bathed in the aromatic butter and wine sauce for an unforgettable finish. This dish is best enjoyed immediately to appreciate the texture and fragrance at their peak.
Try it with...
Filippo Bartolotta
...Great Italian Goodies!
tania Thursday 5th of November 2020
A true taste of Rome
I love Prosciutto Crudo and it works so smoothly here. It's also one of the most approachable Italian dishes in terms of ingredients, prep and cooking time, and flavours. My kids are crazy for this one - it's on our rotation at least once a week. A big (easy!) favorite in my household.