Description
This Simple Lemon Caper Sauce is a bright and tangy condiment perfect for enhancing the flavors of grilled fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables. Made with fresh lemon juice, capers, garlic, and butter, it comes together quickly in just 10 minutes for a vibrant, savory addition to your meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a small skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat to prepare the base for the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to brown it to maintain its delicate flavor.
- Add lemon and capers: Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, capers, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Incorporate butter: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter until melted and the sauce thickens slightly for a smooth, rich texture.
- Finish with parsley: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley if desired to add a fresh herbal note.
- Serve: Serve the sauce warm over grilled fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a zesty and flavorful enhancement.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative or omit it entirely, though it will alter the richness.
- Adjust salt as needed depending on the saltiness of your capers.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice are key to a bright flavor; avoid bottled lemon juice for best results.
- This sauce is best served immediately but can be gently reheated on low heat for later use.
- Optional parsley adds color and freshness but can be omitted or replaced with other fresh herbs like dill or basil.
