Pork Milanese: Crispy Italian Pork Cutlets with a Fresh Lemon Arugula Salad

Originating from Milan, this dish is all about contrast: the crunch of the cutlet, the peppery bite of arugula, and the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. It’s quick to make and totally irresistible.

🥕 Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Pork Cutlets:

4 boneless pork loin chops (about ½ inch thick)
Salt and pepper
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tbsp milk
1½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
Olive oil or vegetable oil for frying

For the Salad:

4 cups baby arugula
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper
Shaved Parmesan (for topping)

🍲 Instructions

Pound the Pork: Place pork chops between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them with a meat mallet until about ¼ inch thick. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Prep Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes—one with flour, one with eggs whisked with milk, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and garlic powder.

Bread the Cutlets: Dredge each pork chop first in flour, then the egg mixture, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the coating stick.

Fry the Cutlets: Heat ½ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cutlets and fry for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Make the Salad: In a bowl, toss arugula and cherry tomatoes with lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Assemble & Serve: Plate each pork cutlet, top with a generous handful of the salad, and garnish with shaved Parmesan. Serve immediately.

📦 Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Make the Perfect Chicken Milanese or Cutlets

🔨 Meat Tenderizer Mallet — Flattens chicken evenly for quick, consistent cooking.
🥣 Breading Station Trays — Keep your flour, egg, and breadcrumbs organized and mess-free.
🧂 Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs — Pre-seasoned for delicious, crispy coating.
🧀 Grated Par m esan Cheese — Adds rich, savory flavor to your breadcrumb mix.
🥗 Salad Spinner (for Arugula) — Wash and dry arugula or mixed greens quickly.
🍋 Citrus Squeezer — Get every drop of lemon juice for that fresh, zesty finish.

Pro Tip: Let the breaded cutlets chill in the fridge for 15 minutes before frying—this helps the coating crisp up beautifully without falling off.