A straightforward three-component synthesis of alpha-amino esters containing a phenylalanine or a phenylglycine scaffold.

A range of alpha-amino esters has been synthesized in good to high yields using a straightforward three-component reaction among preformed or in situ generated aromatic or benzylic organozinc reagents, primary or secondary amines, and ethyl glyoxylate. The procedure, which is characterized by its simplicity, allows the concise synthesis of esters bearing a phenylglycine or a phenylalanine scaffold.