Savory Turkey Saltimbocca Recipe with Prosciutto & Sage

Picture this: tender turkey cutlets wrapped in savory prosciutto, infused with the earthy aroma of fresh sage and bathed in a buttery white wine sauce. That’s what you get with this savory turkey saltimbocca recipe. It’s elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make. If you’ve been searching for a recipe that will make your guests swoon, or if you just want to treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy dinner at home, you’re in the right place!

I first discovered turkey saltimbocca during a cozy dinner with friends, and I was immediately hooked. Traditionally made with veal, saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that translates to “jump in the mouth.” Believe me, that’s exactly what the flavor does! But I wanted a lighter twist on the recipe, so I swapped veal for turkey cutlets. The result? A dish that’s just as satisfying but a little leaner.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to spice up your weeknight meals, this recipe is perfect. It’s simple enough for everyday cooking but sophisticated enough to impress. Trust me—after making this once, it will quickly earn a spot on your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of prosciutto, sage, and white wine creates a harmony of flavors that’s both elegant and comforting.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—most of these ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at any grocery store.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layering of turkey, prosciutto, and sage looks as good as it tastes, making this dish fantastic for entertaining.
• Customizable: Whether you want a gluten-free version or a slightly different flavor profile, there’s room to make this recipe your own.

This savory turkey saltimbocca recipe is more than just delicious—it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like a special treat without the stress. Plus, the combination of lean turkey and aromatic herbs means it’s a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Every bite is a celebration of Italian tradition with a modern twist!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple yet flavorful ingredients to create a dish that’s both mouthwatering and easy to prepare. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Turkey cutlets: Thinly sliced for quick cooking. If you can’t find turkey cutlets, you can slice turkey breast thinly yourself.
• Prosciutto: Thin, salty, and slightly sweet cured ham. Look for good-quality prosciutto for the best flavor.
• Fresh sage leaves: The earthy aroma of fresh sage is essential for authentic saltimbocca.
• All-purpose flour: For lightly coating the turkey cutlets before cooking. You can use gluten-free flour if needed.
• Olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil works best for flavor and cooking.
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps create that irresistible golden crust on the turkey.
• Dry white wine: Choose a wine you love to drink—it’ll infuse the dish with bright, tangy notes.
• Chicken broth: Adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning the turkey and balancing the flavors.

These ingredients work together to create a recipe that’s both simple and packed with flavor. And the best part? You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy setup for this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and helps develop a flavorful crust.
• Meat mallet: For pounding the turkey cutlets to an even thickness. (If you don’t have one, you can use the back of a heavy pan.)
• Sharp knife: Essential for slicing turkey breast if you’re making your own cutlets.
• Tongs: Makes flipping the turkey cutlets easy without damaging the prosciutto.
• Small whisk: Helps to mix the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Plate and paper towels: For draining excess oil off the cooked turkey before serving.

If you’re missing any specialized tools, don’t worry—there’s always a workaround. For example, a rolling pin or wine bottle can stand in for a meat mallet.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the turkey: Place the turkey cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet until they’re about ¼ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Add the prosciutto and sage: Lay a slice of prosciutto over each turkey cutlet, pressing lightly to adhere. Place a fresh sage leaf on top and secure it with a toothpick.
3. Dredge in flour: Lightly coat each cutlet with flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a golden crust when cooking.
4. Heat the skillet: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the turkey cutlets, prosciutto-side down, and cook for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Remove the cutlets and set them aside.
5. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, then add ½ cup of dry white wine and ½ cup of chicken broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet for added flavor. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly reduced.
6. Return the turkey: Place the turkey cutlets back into the skillet, spoon the sauce over them, and simmer for 2–3 minutes to heat through.
7. Serve: Transfer the turkey saltimbocca to a plate, spoon the sauce over the top, and garnish with extra sage leaves if desired.

And there you have it—a restaurant-quality dish made right in your own kitchen!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your turkey saltimbocca turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t skip the pounding: This step ensures the turkey cooks evenly and stays tender.
• Use fresh sage: Dried sage won’t deliver the same aromatic punch as fresh leaves.
• Choose the right wine: A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for the sauce.
• Watch the heat: Cooking the turkey on medium-high ensures a golden crust without overcooking.
• Taste the sauce: Adjust the seasoning if needed, especially after adding the wine and broth.

These small details make all the difference in achieving a flavorful, beautifully cooked dish.

Variations & Adaptations

This savory turkey saltimbocca recipe is highly adaptable! Here are some ideas:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour for dredging. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
• Pork-free: Swap prosciutto for thinly sliced turkey bacon or even a vegetarian alternative.
• Seasonal twist: Add a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan to the sauce for a brighter flavor.
• Side dish variety: Pair this dish with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple arugula salad for different vibes.

Feel free to customize based on your taste or dietary needs—this recipe is forgiving and flexible!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your turkey saltimbocca:

• Serving temperature: Serve hot, straight from the skillet, for the best flavor and texture.
• Presentation tip: Arrange the cutlets on a platter with fresh sage leaves for garnish, and serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the sauce from drying out.

The flavors deepen as the dish sits, so leftovers are just as delicious—if not better!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving.
• Protein-packed: Turkey is a lean source of protein, making this dish great for muscle recovery and overall health.
• Low-carb: Ideal for those following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a lighter meal.
• Sage benefits: Packed with antioxidants and known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
• Potential allergens: Contains dairy and gluten (unless substitutions are made).

With wholesome ingredients and a balanced nutritional profile, this dish is as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about this savory turkey saltimbocca recipe. It brings together simple, high-quality ingredients in a way that feels luxurious and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is bound to impress.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Swap ingredients, add your favorite sides, or experiment with the sauce—you might just discover a new favorite version. I love this recipe because it’s a reminder that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Give it a try and let me know how it turned out! Drop a comment, share your adaptations, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for later. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, chicken cutlets work well as a substitute for turkey. Just make sure to pound them to an even thickness.

What type of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is perfect. Avoid sweet wines as they can overpower the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the turkey cutlets and sauce separately, then reheat them together just before serving for the best results.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free flour for dredging, the recipe can be made entirely gluten-free.

What sides pair well with turkey saltimbocca?

Roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, or a simple salad are excellent accompaniments to this dish.

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