Recipe Catalog

Vitello tonnato is an exquisite dish from Italian cuisine that originated in Piedmont and has won the hearts of gourmets worldwide. Tender veal fillet slow-cooked in aromatic broth with spices achieves remarkable tenderness and rich flavor. The main feature of the dish is the sauce made from tuna, capers, and anchovies, which has a delicate creamy texture with a savory saltiness. A garnish of carrots, fresh parsley, lemon, and olives complements the composition, making each serving visually appealing. Vitello tonnato is served cold, making it an ideal choice for summer dinners and festive gatherings.

Vitello tonnato is a classic dish of Italian cuisine that carefully preserves the traditions of the Piedmont region. Its history dates back to the 18th century when veal began to be paired with a delicate tuna sauce. It is a harmony of flavors: tender, aromatic meat infused with herbs and wine complemented by a velvety fish sauce with tangy capers. The dish impresses with its sophistication and freshness, while thin slices of veal melt in the mouth, revealing a layered taste. Perfect for a summer dinner or festive table, Vitello tonnato showcases the art of Italian gastronomy by combining earthly and marine ingredients in an exquisite duet.

Alexey Kanevsky, chef of the Smoke BBQ restaurant, shared the recipe with us. It's great to add some sprats to the classic Italian appetizer with a tuna-based sauce. They won't dominate, because the fish are similar in taste , but due to the unconditional recognizability of sprats, magic will be born for a Russian person: on a subconscious level, he will feel something familiar in the dish.

The combination of meat and fish in one dish seems strange and too avant-garde only at first glance. One of the most famous dishes in which they are combined easily and casually is the Italian appetizer vitello tonnato, that is, veal with tuna sauce. Here, the pulp of canned tuna plays the role of a spice, adding the right flavor accent to the bland meat. The same sauce will work well with thinly beaten slices of boiled turkey or chicken breast, and if you want to do without the meat component altogether , then with cauliflower carpaccio or thinly sliced zucchini.

Vitello tonnato is an exquisite dish of European cuisine, originating from Piedmont, Italy. This tender combination of veal and a tangy sauce made from tuna, anchovies, and olive oil has a balanced flavor—the meat's softness harmoniously complemented by the light acidity of vinegar and lemon. The dish is served chilled, making it an ideal choice for summer evenings and festive buffets. Legend has it that vitello tonnato was created to elevate simple ingredients with noble taste. Today it is appreciated for its delicate texture, rich yet refreshing flavor, and versatility—it pairs well with both white wine and vegetable sides.