Orlando Italian Spiedini Alla Romano Spiedini Alla Romana Recipe

If you’ve ever dined at an authentic Italian restaurant in Orlando, chances are you’ve come across Spiedini alla Romana—a classic Roman dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. This beloved Italian specialty features tender breaded veal or chicken cutlets wrapped around gooey mozzarella, skewered, fried to golden perfection, and served with a buttery wine sauce.

But what makes Orlando’s take on this dish special? And how can you recreate it at home? In this guide, we’ll explore the origins of Spiedini alla Romana, break down the traditional recipe, and share expert tips to help you master this Italian favorite.

What Is Spiedini alla Romana?

Spiedini alla Romana (or “Roman-style skewers”) is a traditional dish from Rome, typically made with thin slices of meat (usually veal or chicken) rolled around cheese, breaded, skewered, and fried. The result is a crispy exterior with a molten cheese center, often served with a savory lemon-butter sauce.

While the dish has roots in Rome, Italian-American communities—especially in cities like Orlando—have put their own spin on it, sometimes using chicken instead of veal or adding prosciutto for extra flavor.

Why Orlando Does It Best

Orlando’s vibrant Italian dining scene, particularly in neighborhoods like Little Italy or restaurants such as Christini’s Ristorante Italiano, has perfected this dish by:

• Using high-quality, fresh mozzarella for maximum meltiness.
• Balancing the breading for a light, crispy texture.
• Serving it with a delicate white wine or lemon-butter sauce.

Authentic Orlando Italian Spiedini Alla Romano Spiedini Alla Romana Recipe

Now, let’s dive into how you can make this restaurant-quality dish at home.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 veal or chicken cutlets 
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella (cut into thick sticks)
• 4 slices prosciutto (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-seasoned)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Olive oil or vegetable oil (for frying)
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup dry white wine
• Juice of ½ lemon
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat & Cheese

• Season with pepper and salt after flattening the pounded cutlets.
• Place a slice of prosciutto (if using) on each cutlet, followed by a stick of mozzarella.
• Roll the cutlet tightly around the cheese, ensuring no gaps.

2. Bread the Rolls

• Set up a breading station:
  • First bowl: Flour
  • Second bowl: Beaten eggs
  • Third bowl: Breadcrumbs
• Coat each bundle of cheese and meat with breadcrumbs after rolling it in flour and dipping it in egg. Press gently to ensure the crumbs stick.

3. Skewer & Fry

• Thread 2-3 rolls onto each skewer (this helps them hold shape).
• Heat oil in a deep skillet (about ½ inch deep) over medium heat.
• The skewers should be crispy and golden brown after 2 to 3 minutes of cooking on each side.
• Drain on paper towels.

4. Make the Sauce

• In a small saucepan over low heat & melt the butter.
• Add white wine and lemon juice, simmering for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.
• Stir in parsley and season with salt.

5. Serve & Enjoy!

• Plate the skewers and drizzle with the warm butter sauce.
• Pair with a simple arugula salad or roasted vegetables.

Expert Tips for Perfect Spiedini

✔ Fresh mozzarella melts better than low-moisture cheese.
✔ Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying to ensure even crispiness.
✔ Let the skewers rest for a minute before serving so the cheese sets slightly.
✔ For extra crunch, mix panko breadcrumbs with traditional ones.

Conclusion: Bringing Rome to Your Kitchen

Spiedini alla Romana is a dish that balances simplicity with decadence—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it at an Orlando trattoria or making it at home, this Roman classic is sure to impress.