The grilled mortadella with lemon is one of those seemingly simple dishes, but rich in flavor and impressive. Let yourself be captured by the enveloping aroma of this delicacy, which combines genuineness and refinement.
Mortadella, the undisputed queen of Italian charcuterie, has a centuries-old history rooted in the splendid Bologna. Known for its delicate taste and velvety texture, it lends itself to numerous culinary interpretations, but there is something truly special in preparing it on the grill with a splash of lemon.
When the slice of mortadella touches the hot surface of the grill, an irresistible aroma is immediately released. The heat intensifies the aromas of the spices and pistachios, if present, while the surface slightly caramelizes, creating a crispy crust that encloses all the inner softness.
And then there’s the magical touch of lemon. A light splash of fresh lemon juice, added right at the end of cooking, gives a tangy and fragrant note that balances the richness of the mortadella. The lemon not only enhances the flavor, but also provides a freshness that makes each bite an explosive and satisfying experience.
This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served on many occasions. It’s perfect as a delightful appetizer during a dinner with friends, accompanied by a good glass of fresh white wine. It can become the star of a Sunday brunch, paired with crunchy bread and a selection of cheeses and grilled vegetables. And why not try it in a gourmet sandwich, with some arugula leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil?
Grilled mortadella with lemon is also an excellent choice for those looking for a quick yet impressive dish. In just a few minutes, you can transform a simple ingredient into a dish that will surprise and delight your guests.
Don’t miss these other tasty and quick recipes:
- Difficulty: Very Easy
- Cost: Cheap
- Preparation time: 3 Minutes
- Portions: 10 Pieces
- Cooking methods: Grill
- Cuisine: Italian
- Energy 47.29 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 0.61 (g) of which sugars 0.13 (g)
- Proteins 2.48 (g)
- Fat 3.81 (g) of which saturated 1.43 (g)of which unsaturated 2.18 (g)
- Fibers 0.01 (g)
- Sodium 187.22 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 1 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients for Grilled Mortadella with Lemon
- 5.29 oz mortadella with pistachios
- 1 lemon juice
- 1 bunch parsley
Preparation of Grilled Mortadella with Lemon
Cut the mortadella into slices that are not too thin. I chose a round-shaped mortadella, but you can also opt for other types.
Heat the grill very well (preferably non-stick) and place the slices of mortadella. Grill for three minutes per side.
Remove the slices from the heat one by one and place them on a tray. Finish with the lemon juice and freshly chopped parsley.
Suggestions
-Try adding fresh aromatic herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme to enrich the flavor of the mortadella. Add them just before serving for a fresh and fragrant note.
-You can add a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or chili powder for a spicy touch.
-Or you can serve the grilled mortadella with shavings of parmesan or pecorino for a contrast of flavors and textures.
-Create a gourmet sandwich with grilled mortadella, arugula leaves, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy spreadable cheese.
Storage
You can store the grilled mortadella in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
FAQ
Can I prepare the grilled mortadella in advance?
It is best to cook it at the moment to preserve its crunchiness and flavor. However, you can prepare the ingredients in advance to speed up the cooking.
What side dishes go well with grilled mortadella?
Side dishes like fresh salads, grilled vegetables, baked potatoes, or crunchy bread croutons pair perfectly.
