How to serve the Vitello Tonnato

The Vitello Tonnato is a classic Italian dish that consists of thinly sliced veal covered in a creamy tuna sauce. This combination of flavors might sound unusual, but it creates a unique and delicious taste experience that is loved by many. If you are interested in exploring new culinary adventures or impressing your guests with an exquisite dish, learning how to serve the Vitello Tonnato is a great skill to have.

Firstly, let’s start with the ingredients you will need to make this dish. For the veal, you will require around 1 pound of veal roast, preferably from the top round or eye round cuts. To make the tuna sauce, you will need 1 can of high-quality tuna packed in olive oil, 2 anchovy fillets, 2 tablespoons of capers, 1 egg yolk, 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil, the juice of 1 lemon, and salt and pepper to taste. Additionally, you will need some fresh basil leaves and lemon slices for garnish.

Now, let’s move on to the preparation of the dish. Start by boiling the veal roast in salted water for about 1 hour or until it is cooked through but still tender. You can add some aromatics such as onion, carrots, and celery to the boiling water to enhance the flavor of the meat. Once cooked, remove the veal from the water and let it cool. You can refrigerate it for a few hours to make slicing easier.

While the veal is cooling, it’s time to prepare the tuna sauce. Drain the tuna from the can, reserving some of the olive oil. In a food processor, combine the tuna, anchovy fillets, capers, egg yolk, mayonnaise, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Once the veal has chilled, it’s time to slice it. Using a sharp knife, cut the veal into thin slices, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Arrange the veal slices on a serving platter, slightly overlapping each other. The traditional way of serving this dish is by creating a single layer of veal slices. However, some variations include stacking multiple layers to give it a more substantial look and to better hold the sauce.

With the veal slices neatly arranged, it’s time to generously spread the tuna sauce over the top. Make sure to cover the entire surface with an even layer of the sauce. This not only flavors the meat but also adds a vibrant color to the dish. Once you have applied the sauce, you can garnish the Vitello Tonnato with fresh basil leaves and lemon slices for an extra touch of freshness.

Serve the Vitello Tonnato at room temperature or slightly chilled. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course. You can pair it with some crusty bread, a side salad, or even some roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. The combination of the tender veal, creamy tuna sauce, and refreshing garnish creates a balance of flavors that will surely please your taste buds.

In conclusion, learning how to serve the Vitello Tonnato is a fantastic way to expand your culinary repertoire. This classic Italian dish offers a unique combination of flavors that is both sophisticated and delicious. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create a stunning dish that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more. So, go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!