Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary adventure! This mouthwatering Florentine Pork in French Bread Boats is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines tender, perfectly seared pork, creamy ricotta, and vibrant spinach, all nestled in a crispy French bread boat. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a gourmet home-cooked meal, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and tantalize your taste buds like never before.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork tenderloin, sliced
- 1 cup spinach, cooked
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 French bread loaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
- Slice the pork tenderloin into thin, even strips, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Season the pork generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil and sear the pork strips for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked spinach, ricotta cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix thoroughly and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Slice the French bread loaves lengthwise, creating two boat-like halves. Carefully hollow out the center of each bread half, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
- Spread the spinach and ricotta mixture evenly across the bottom of each bread boat.
- Arrange the seared pork strips on top of the spinach mixture, covering the entire surface of each bread boat.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the pork strips.
- Place the bread boats on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Slice each bread boat into serving portions and serve hot.
Tips
- Meat Preparation: For the most tender pork, slice against the grain and ensure even thickness to guarantee uniform cooking.
- Seasoning Secrets: Don't be shy with salt and pepper. Generously seasoning the pork before searing will enhance its natural flavors.
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor profile. Pre-grated cheese can be drier and less flavorful.
- Bread Selection: Choose fresh, high-quality French bread with a sturdy crust that can hold the filling without becoming soggy.
- Cooking Technique: When searing pork, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the meat to achieve a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
- Oven Placement: Position your bread boats in the middle rack of the oven for even heating and perfect crispiness.
- Serving Suggestion: Let the bread boats rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld and prevent burning your mouth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 95mg
