Cornish Italiano
A flavorful Cornish hen dish infused with sage, rosemary, and garlic, simmered in white wine and served with a creamy noodle accompaniment, perfect for elegant family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the dry seasonings (garlic powder, sage, salt, pepper, rosemary) and rub them inside and outside the hens.
- In a large pan, melt butter and olive oil over medium heat and brown the hens on all sides.
- Add the white wine, cover the pan, and simmer until the hens are tender, about 45 minutes.
- Remove the hens to a platter, cover, and keep warm.
- Mix flour with 1/2 cup warm water and add to the pan juices to make the Cornish sauce.
- Serve the hens with the sauce over noodles mixed with sour cream and Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the Cornish hens in the dry rub overnight. If you don't have dry white wine, a splash of chicken broth or apple juice can work as a substitute. To thicken the sauce further, add a bit more flour or cornstarch mixed in water. Consider using Saged Fowl In Wine Sauce as inspiration for additional flavor layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cornish hens over a bed of noodles mixed with sour cream and Parmesan cheese for a creamy contrast. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad pairs wonderfully with this dish. For a gourmet touch, drizzle some Evelyn Barrett'S Mustard Sauce over the hens for added zest.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cornish hens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the hens in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornish Italiano contains roughly 70 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1758mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole Cornish hens instead of halved ones?
Yes, whole Cornish hens can be used, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Whole hens typically require about 15-20 minutes more cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.
What wine is best for this recipe?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay works best for this recipe, as they complement the flavors of the herbs without overpowering the dish. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the flavor profile.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the hens and sauce ahead of time. Just cook them, let them cool, and then store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently in the oven and serve with fresh noodles for a quick meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).