Description
This Simple Lemon Caper Sauce is a bright and tangy condiment perfect for elevating grilled fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables. Made with fresh lemon juice, capers, garlic, and a touch of butter, it takes just 10 minutes to prepare and adds a flavorful, zesty finish to your dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Simple Lemon Caper Sauce 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 olive oil: Place a small skillet or saucepan over medium heat and warm the olive oil until hot and shimmering.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Add lemon and capers: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, capers, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Incorporate butter: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the unsalted butter until fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly to create a smooth texture.
- Finish with parsley: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley, if using, to add a fresh herbaceous note.
- Serve: Serve the lemon caper sauce warm atop grilled fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables for a bright, savory flavor.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a non-dairy margarine or additional olive oil.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to your taste preference for acidity and brightness.
- Capers add a salty, briny punch; rinse them if you prefer a milder taste.
- This sauce pairs exceptionally well with seafood and light proteins.
- Prepare the sauce just before serving to maintain its fresh and vibrant flavors.
