Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple Lemon Caper Sauce is a tangy and vibrant condiment that adds a burst of flavor to seafood, chicken, or vegetables. With its zesty lemon base and briny capers, it’s quick to make and elevates any dish with minimal effort. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gourmet-style plating, this sauce brings brightness and depth to your meals.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
buttergarliclemon juicelemon zestcaperschicken or vegetable brothfresh parsley (optional)salt and pepper
directions
Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and capers.
Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 3-5 minutes to let the flavors meld and the sauce reduce slightly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Optional: Stir in chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 3/4 cup of sauce, enough for 4 servings.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 7 minutesTotal time: 12 minutes
Variations
Add a splash of white wine for a richer flavor.
Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
Use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version.
Incorporate shallots for a more complex taste.
storage/reheating
Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid separation.Do not freeze, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes, use a plant-based butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.
What dishes pair best with Lemon Caper Sauce?
It complements fish like salmon or cod, grilled chicken, steamed vegetables, or pasta.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance and reheated gently before serving.
Do I have to use fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
Can I thicken the sauce?
If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry and simmer until thickened.
Conclusion
Simple Lemon Caper Sauce is a quick and easy way to enhance your meals with a touch of brightness and complexity. Whether drizzled over fish or spooned onto vegetables, this sauce is a kitchen staple that brings gourmet flavor to everyday dishes.
Print
Simple Lemon Caper Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A bright, buttery lemon and caper sauce that’s quick to make and perfect for fish, chicken, shrimp, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons capers, drained
- 1–2 teaspoons chopped fresh parsley
- Kosher salt, to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter in a small skillet over low heat.
- Add minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and capers; simmer gently about 30 seconds.
- Stir in parsley and season with salt.
- Remove from heat and drizzle immediately over cooked fish, chicken, shrimp, potatoes, or vegetables.
Notes
- Make up to 3 days ahead—store covered in fridge and reheat gently.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the butter with white wine.
- To make creamy, blend gently or add a splash of cream.
- Olive oil can replace butter for a dairy‑free option.