Pork Scallopini Recipe

To make pork scallopini, first slice and pound 1 pound of pork tenderloin into ½-inch medallions. Dredge them in a mix of ¾ cup flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Sauté the pork in olive oil over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes on each side. In the same pan, add sliced mushrooms and garlic. For the sauce, combine 2 tablespoons butter, flour, lemon juice, milk, and ¼ cup grated parmesan. The dish cooks quickly, taking about 30 minutes, and is high in protein. Want more details on serving suggestions or variations? You’ll find helpful tips ahead.

Key Takeaways

• Pork scallopini features quick preparation, taking only 25-30 minutes to cook, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Key ingredients include pork chops, butter, lemons, capers, and chicken broth, creating a simple yet flavorful dish.
• The dish is made by slicing and pounding pork into medallions, then sautéing them until golden brown.
• A rich lemon cream sauce is prepared with butter, flour, lemon juice, milk, and parmesan to complement the pork.
• Serve with fresh parsley and lemon slices, and consider pairing with Chianti for an enhanced dining experience.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

When you’re looking for a delicious meal that won’t take hours to prepare, this Pork Scallopini recipe is perfect for you.

You’ll appreciate its ease of preparation, taking only 25-30 minutes to cook. With simple ingredients like pork chops, butter, lemons, capers, and chicken broth, you can whip it up in no time. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which makes cleanup quick and easy.

The rich lemon flavor and briny capers provide a balanced taste, while the buttery sauce keeps it creamy. Nutritionally, it’s high in protein and low in calories, making it a healthy option, especially for those following a low-carb diet.

Lastly, it’s versatile—serve it with pasta, orzo, or vegetables, and customize it to suit your taste.

Recipe

Pork Scallopini Recipe

Pork scallopini is a delightful dish that showcases tender, thinly sliced pork medallions paired with a luscious lemon cream sauce and sautéed mushrooms. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The combination of flavors—from the savory pork to the tangy lemon and earthy mushrooms—creates a harmonious dish that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is often made with pork tenderloin, which enhances the overall taste profile.

To prepare this dish, you’ll start by slicing and pounding the pork to ensure it’s tender and cooks evenly. Coating the pork in seasoned flour adds a delicious crispy texture when pan-fried. The lemon cream sauce, enriched with parmesan cheese, elevates the dish, while the sautéed mushrooms add an extra layer of flavor. Serve this dish garnished with fresh parsley and lemon slices for a beautiful presentation.

Ingredients

• 2 pork tenderloins (1 pound each) or 1-inch thick boneless, center cut pork chops
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 12-ounce packages white mushrooms (whole, cleaned, sliced)
• 1 fresh lemon, quartered and sliced
• 2 large cloves garlic or 2 teaspoons store-bought chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter, divided
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes or 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Begin by slicing the pork tenderloin into 1/2-inch thick medallions. Use a meat mallet or a heavy pan to pound each medallion to about 1/4 inch thickness. This step ensures the pork cooks quickly and stays tender.
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge each pork medallion in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess flour.
3. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork medallions in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown. Once browned, remove the pork from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter and the sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mushrooms for about 5 minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in the thawed apple juice concentrate (or substitute with chicken broth for a savory touch) and bring to a simmer. Add the pork back to the skillet, allowing it to warm through while the flavors meld.
6. In a separate small saucepan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter and whisk in a tablespoon of flour to create a roux. Gradually add lemon juice, milk, and grated parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth. Simmer until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
7. To serve, plate the pork medallions and generously drizzle the lemon cream sauce over the top. Garnish with lemon slices and chopped parsley.

For the best results, ensure the pork is pounded evenly and cooked in batches to achieve a nice crispy crust. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed mushrooms. Additionally, feel free to substitute the white mushrooms with other varieties like cremini or shiitake for a different flavor profile. Enjoy your delicious pork scallopini!

Final Thoughts

Pork scallopini not only impresses with its vibrant flavors but also stands out for its ease of preparation. In just 25 minutes, you can create a delicious dish using simple ingredients like garlic, lemons, and olive oil. This recipe allows you to multitask—prepare a side of sautéed spinach while the pork cooks. With approximately 200 calories and a good balance of protein, this meal fits various dietary needs. You can serve it with pasta, vegetables, or a creamy lemon sauce for added taste. For a quick and easy preparation, consider pairing it with a glass of Chianti. Overall, pork scallopini offers versatility and convenience, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Substitute Pork With Another Meat in This Recipe?

Yes, you can definitely substitute pork with chicken, veal, turkey, or even vegan alternatives. Each option cooks similarly, allowing you to maintain the same flavors and cooking techniques. Just adjust the seasoning as needed.

How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour blends for dredging, choose gluten-free broth or stock, and ensure all seasonings and sides, like pasta or rice, are gluten-free. It’s simple and delicious!

Is There a Vegetarian Version of Pork Scallopini?

Yes, you can definitely find vegetarian versions of scallopini. Options like Gardein Chick’n, mushrooms, or tofu work well. They replicate the texture and flavors, often using similar cooking techniques and delicious lemon-garlic sauces. Enjoy experimenting!

What Wine Pairs Best With Pork Scallopini?

When considering a delightful marriage of flavors, you’ll find a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity Pinot Noir enhances the experience beautifully. Each sip complements the dish’s nuances, elevating your dining experience to new heights.

Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?

Yes, you can prepare components in advance, like chopping garlic and slicing lemons. However, cooking and assembling the dish right before serving ensures the best flavor and freshness. Just store everything properly until you’re ready.