Sweetbreads in lemon butter sauce are a delicate Italian delicacy. This high protein mediterranean dish is a refined carnivore choice for adventurous family diners.
Soak sweetbreads in cold water for 1 hour, changing the water several times to remove impurities. Drain, then simmer gently in barely simmering water for 10 minutes. Cool and trim away membranes using a paring knife.
Pat sweetbreads dry and cut into bite-sized pieces. Season with half the salt and pepper. Dredge each piece lightly in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess for even browning.
Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sweetbreads in a single layer (work in batches if necessary), searing until golden on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter to the pan, followed by the juice of 1 lemon. Swirl the pan gently for 1 minute, spooning sauce over sweetbreads to glaze and infuse with flavor.
Transfer sweetbreads to a warm platter. Stir chopped parsley into the lemon butter sauce, then pour sauce over sweetbreads. Serve immediately, garnished with additional lemon slices and parsley if desired.