Description
This Simple Lemon Caper Sauce is a bright and tangy condiment that elevates grilled fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables with its fresh lemon juices, aromatic garlic, and salty capers. Ready in just 10 minutes, this easy sauce combines the richness of butter with zesty lemon and briny capers for a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sauce
- 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: Heat the olive oil in a small skillet or saucepan over medium heat to create a warm base for the sauce.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown 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 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Incorporate butter: Reduce the heat to low, then whisk in the unsalted butter until it melts completely and the sauce thickens slightly, giving it a rich texture.
- Finish with parsley: Remove the pan from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley if using, which adds a fresh herbal note.
- Serve: Serve the sauce warm over grilled fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables for an easy, flavorful finishing touch.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best bright flavor.
- Do not overcook the garlic to prevent bitterness.
- Capers add a salty, briny flavor—rinse them if you prefer a milder taste.
- Butter enriches the sauce and helps thicken it slightly; use unsalted for better control over sodium.
- Fresh parsley is optional but enhances color and freshness.
- This sauce pairs exceptionally well with grilled or roasted seafood and poultry.
