Saltimbocca Pork Recipe Easy and Delicious Dinner Ideas

Saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that beautifully combines tender pork, savory prosciutto, and fragrant fresh sage. This Saltimbocca pork recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional veal version, offering a rich and satisfying meal that’s both quick and impressive.

The name itself means “jumps in the mouth,” a nod to the vibrant flavors and tender textures that make every bite irresistible.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings a touch of Italian elegance to your table. The marriage of salty prosciutto and earthy sage atop juicy pork creates a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat.

Plus, the simple pan sauce made with white wine and butter adds a luscious finish that elevates the dish even further.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow guide to making authentic Saltimbocca pork at home. It’s a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious, perfect for showcasing your culinary skills without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Saltimbocca pork recipe is a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that makes it a standout meal. The pork remains tender and juicy, thanks to quick cooking and the protective layer of prosciutto and sage.

The prosciutto crisps up slightly during cooking, adding a delightful salty crunch, while the fresh sage imparts a subtle, aromatic flavor.

Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

It’s also versatile – perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant dinner party. Plus, the pan sauce is a flavorful bonus that requires only a few extra minutes.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. It’s a fantastic way to explore Italian cuisine with familiar ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless pork chops (about 1/2 inch thick, roughly 6 oz each)
• 8 thin slices of prosciutto
• 8 fresh sage leaves
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Shallow dish for flour
• Tongs
• Meat mallet or rolling pin (optional, for pounding pork)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Plate lined with paper towels (for resting cooked pork)

Instructions

1. Prepare the pork chops: If your pork chops are thick, gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even cooking and tenderness. Season both sides of the pork chops lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Dredge the pork: Place the flour in a shallow dish. Lightly dredge each pork chop in the flour, shaking off any excess. This coating helps create a nice crust when cooking.
3. Assemble the saltimbocca: Lay two sage leaves on top of each pork chop. Then, place two slices of prosciutto over the sage, pressing gently so they stick together. The sage and prosciutto form the iconic flavorful topping.
4. Heat the skillet: Warm the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat in a large skillet. Once hot and shimmering, carefully place the pork chops prosciutto-side down in the pan. Cook without moving for about 3-4 minutes, until the prosciutto is crispy and golden.
5. Flip and cook the pork: Using tongs, gently flip the pork chops and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. The pork should be cooked through but still juicy; internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
6. Remove and rest: Transfer the cooked pork chops to a plate lined with paper towels and cover loosely with foil to keep warm while you make the sauce.
7. Make the pan sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
8. Finish the sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and the sauce is silky. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve: Spoon the pan sauce over the pork chops. Garnish with extra sage leaves if desired and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright citrus finish.

Tips & Variations

Tip: Use thin pork cutlets or butterfly your pork chops for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.

Variation: Swap the pork for chicken breasts or veal cutlets if you want to try a different protein with the same amazing flavors.

Flavor boost: Add a splash of chicken broth or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the pan sauce for a deeper taste.

Serving suggestion: For a gluten-free version, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for dredging.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Saltimbocca pork pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic Italian feel, serve it alongside creamy risotto or buttery polenta.

Roasted or sautéed seasonal vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts also complement the rich flavors perfectly.

For a lighter option, try a crisp mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic mashed potatoes or even simple pasta tossed with olive oil and parmesan make excellent accompaniments as well.

Don’t forget fresh crusty bread to soak up the luscious pan sauce – it truly completes the dining experience.

Conclusion

This Saltimbocca pork recipe is a fantastic way to bring a taste of Italy into your home kitchen with minimal effort. The harmony of tender pork, salty prosciutto, and fragrant sage creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress your guests.

Plus, the quick pan sauce adds a touch of elegance without complicating the process.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s approachable, delicious, and packed with traditional Italian charm.

Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making Saltimbocca pork a regular on your dinner rotation.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Classic Tiramisu Recipe, Creamy Mushroom Risotto, and Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken.

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