Scallopini is a versatile and delicious dish that’s a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike. If you’re looking to make this delectable meal at home, understanding the nuances of the recipe and the best pairings can elevate your cooking experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you cook scallopini like a pro!

Scallopini What Meat to Use

When it comes to scallopini, the most common meat used is chicken. However, you can also use pork or veal, depending on your preference.

• Chicken breast is the most popular choice for scallopini. It’s tender and cooks quickly, making it ideal for this dish. Ensure you thinly slice or pound the chicken to achieve that signature scallopini texture.
• Pork tenderloin is another excellent option. It has a mild flavor that pairs well with the scallopini sauce.
• Veal for more of a traditional approach is often used. Its delicate flavor and tender texture make it a luxurious choice for scallopini.

Scallopini Meaning

The term “scallopini” (or “scaloppine”) comes from the Italian word “scaloppare,” which means “to slice.” Essentially, scallopini refers to thinly sliced meat that’s been pounded flat, typically cooked quickly in a pan. The slices are usually about 1/4 inch thick and are often dredged in flour before cooking, which helps create a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside.

Scallopini Sauce Pairings

The sauce is the heart of scallopini, and there are several delicious options to enhance the dish:

• Lemon and White Wine Sauce This classic sauce is tangy and bright, perfect for cutting through the richness of the meat. It combines lemon juice and white wine with butter and heavy cream, creating a creamy, zesty sauce that pairs beautifully with chicken or veal.
• Mushroom Sauce Adding mushrooms to your scallopini sauce gives it an earthy depth. Sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions in a creamy or broth-based sauce can turn a simple scallopini into a rich and flavorful dish.
• Capers and Tomato Sauce For a punch of flavor, capers and tomatoes make an excellent addition. The capers add a briny kick, while tomatoes provide a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the meat.

Scallopini Sides What to cook with Scallopini

To complement your scallopini, consider pairing it with sides that balance the richness of the dish:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes make a perfect side for scallopini. The mild flavors complement the meat, and they soak up the delicious sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables Lightly steamed vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, or broccoli add freshness and a nice crunch to your meal. They also help balance the richness of the scallopini.
• Pasta A simple pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, is an excellent choice. The pasta can be tossed in a little olive oil or butter to complement the scallopini sauce.
• Risotto For a more decadent option, a creamy risotto pairs beautifully with scallopini. Its rich texture and subtle flavors enhance the overall dining experience.

Scallopini Tips for Perfect Dishes

• Preparation Ensure your meat is thinly sliced and pounded to an even thickness. This helps it cook uniformly and remain tender.
• Cooking Temperature Cook at a medium-high heat to achieve a golden crust without burning. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the meat to steam rather than sear.
• Sauce Timing Add the meat back into the sauce at the end to ensure it’s coated and warmed through without overcooking.

With these tips and ideas, you’re ready to cook a delicious scallopini meal that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the process and savor every bite of this classic dish!

Print Recipe

Scallopini Recipe

Cook Time40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lb or 600g meat (chicken, beef, veal, etc)
• 4 tbsp butter
• 8 oz mushrooms (225g) sliced
• 1 medium onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine
• juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• oil
• freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

• Prepare meat by cutting it into palm-sized pieces. To a large heavy pan on medium heat, cook meat as desired. Remove meat and set aside.
• To pan add butter, onion, garlic and cook until golden, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add mushrooms and cook 2 minutes more.
• Stir in white wine, lemon juice, flour and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer until slightly reduced and thickened, about 3 minutes. Stir in cream.
• Return meat to the pan and spoon sauce over to coat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.