Sun-Kissed California Turkey Scaloppine
Experience the vibrant essence of California in this delightful Sun-Kissed Turkey Scaloppine. Tender turkey breast is marinated in a zesty blend of white wine or lemon juice, then coated in crispy breadcrumbs and sautéed to golden perfection. Each piece is adorned with luscious avocado slices, ripe tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend gathering, inviting the sunny tastes of the West Coast to your table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
14
Ingredients
Ingredients
turkey breast
1 lb (sliced (approx 8 pieces))
white wine or lemon juice
4 tablespoons or 2 tablespoons (for marinating)
egg
1 (beaten)
water
1 tablespoon (added to egg)
dry breadcrumbs
1/2 cup (for coating)
all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon (for coating)
salt
1 teaspoon (for seasoning)
paprika
1/2 teaspoon (for seasoning)
parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped, for coating)
olive oil
2 tablespoons (for sautéing)
ripe tomatoes
8 slices (fresh)
avocado
1 (sliced)
cheddar cheese
8 slices (thinly sliced)
parsley
4 sprigs (for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by pounding the turkey slices between two sheets of waxed paper to achieve a uniformly thin cut. This ensures they cook evenly and remain tender.
2
Marinate the pounded turkey slices in either white wine or lemon juice, covered in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to one hour. This step enhances the flavor and tenderness of the turkey.
3
In a mixing bowl, beat the egg lightly with water. In a separate bowl, combine the dry breadcrumbs, all-purpose flour, salt, paprika, and chopped parsley, mixing well.
4
Working one piece at a time, dip each turkey slice into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Arrange the coated turkey slices on a plate and chill for at least one hour to help the coating adhere.
5
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the breaded turkey slices for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked turkey slices to a shallow baking pan.
6
Top each turkey scaloppine with slices of ripe tomato and avocado, then generously layer with thin slices of cheddar cheese.
7
Place the pan under a broiler preheated to medium-high, watching carefully until the cheese is bubbly and melted, about 2-3 minutes.
8
Transfer the turkey scaloppine to a serving platter or individual plates, serving two slices per person. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs for a touch of color and freshness. Enjoy your California-inspired meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sun-Kissed California Turkey Scaloppine?
It is a vibrant West Coast-inspired dish featuring thin turkey breast slices that are marinated, breaded, sautéed, and topped with fresh avocado, tomatoes, and melted cheddar cheese.
What cut of turkey is required for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of turkey breast, sliced into approximately 8 thin pieces.
Why should I pound the turkey slices?
Pounding the turkey between waxed paper ensures a uniformly thin cut, which allows the meat to cook evenly and remain tender.
What can I use to marinate the turkey?
You can use either 4 tablespoons of white wine or 2 tablespoons of lemon juice for the marinade.
How long should the turkey marinate?
The turkey should marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to one hour to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
How do I prepare the coating for the turkey?
Combine 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley in a bowl.
What is the purpose of the egg wash?
The egg beaten with a tablespoon of water acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumb mixture stick to the turkey slices.
Why must the breaded turkey be chilled before cooking?
Chilling the coated turkey for at least one hour helps the breading adhere firmly so it doesn't fall off during sautéing.
What type of oil is used for sautéing?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the turkey slices.
How long does it take to cook the turkey scaloppine?
Sauté the breaded turkey for approximately 3 minutes on each side over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through.
What toppings are added to the turkey?
Each piece is topped with a slice of ripe tomato, a slice of avocado, and a thin slice of cheddar cheese.
How do I melt the cheese on top?
Place the topped turkey slices in a shallow baking pan under a preheated medium-high broiler for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
The recipe makes approximately 8 slices, intended to serve two slices per person for a total of four servings.
What garnish is recommended?
Fresh parsley sprigs are recommended as a garnish for a touch of color and freshness.
Can I substitute chicken for turkey?
Yes, chicken breast can be easily substituted for turkey breast using the same preparation and cooking methods.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
While it requires some prep time for marinating and chilling, the actual cooking time is very fast, making it great for planned weeknight meals.
What makes this a 'California-style' dish?
The use of fresh avocado and ripe tomatoes is a hallmark of California cuisine, providing a bright and fresh flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with your preferred gluten-free alternatives.
What kind of cheddar cheese should I use?
The recipe suggests thin slices of cheddar; you can use mild, sharp, or extra-sharp depending on your flavor preference.
Can I use lime juice instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice can be used as a zesty alternative for the marinade if lemon juice or white wine is unavailable.
Should the turkey be cooked at high heat?
It is best to use medium heat to ensure the breading browns beautifully without burning before the turkey is cooked through.
How do I know the turkey is finished?
The turkey is done when the breading is golden brown and the meat is no longer pink in the center, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do I need to peel the tomato?
No, simply slicing the ripe tomatoes is sufficient for this recipe.
What should I serve as a side dish?
This pairs well with a light garden salad, steamed asparagus, or a side of quinoa to complement the fresh California flavors.
Can I prepare the breading in advance?
Yes, you can mix the dry breadcrumb ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container.
Is it okay to use dried parsley?
While fresh parsley is preferred for the garnish, dried parsley can be used in the breadcrumb coating if necessary.
What if I don't have a broiler?
You can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute after adding the cheese to let the residual heat melt it, though you won't get the bubbly effect of a broiler.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, other neutral oils with a medium smoke point, like avocado oil or canola oil, will work for sautéing.
How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
Slice the avocado just before you are ready to top the turkey and place it under the broiler to keep it fresh and vibrant.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the breading may soften upon reheating.