Lemon Caper Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Caper Sauce is a bright, tangy, and savory condiment that pairs beautifully with fish, chicken, and vegetables. With the briny burst of capers, the freshness of lemon juice, and the richness of butter, this sauce adds a gourmet touch to everyday dishes. It’s quick to prepare and full of flavor, making it an essential in your kitchen arsenal.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

buttergarliclemon juicelemon zestcaperschicken broth or white wineolive oilsaltblack pepperfresh parsley (optional)

directions

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with a splash of olive oil.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Stir in the chicken broth (or white wine), lemon juice, and capers.

Bring to a gentle simmer and let the sauce reduce slightly, about 3–5 minutes.

Add lemon zest, season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove from heat and stir in chopped fresh parsley if using.

Serve warm over your favorite protein or vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 3/4 cup of sauce.Serving size: 2–4 peoplePreparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 5–7 minutesTotal time: 10–12 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of cream for a richer texture.

Include shallots for an extra layer of flavor.

Use vegan butter to make it dairy-free.

Substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

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 continuously.Do not boil to prevent separation of ingredients.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and can be reheated gently.

Do I need to rinse capers?

Rinsing is recommended to reduce excess brininess.

What type of butter is best?

Unsalted butter gives you better control over salt levels.

Can I freeze this sauce?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat slowly to preserve texture.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients used are gluten-free.

What can I serve this with?

It’s excellent over chicken piccata, grilled fish, shrimp, steamed vegetables, or even pasta.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer to reduce or stir in a small amount of cornstarch slurry if desired.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is preferred for best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.

What kind of wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is ideal.

Can I omit garlic?

Yes, though it adds depth, the sauce will still be flavorful without it.

Conclusion

Lemon Caper Sauce is a versatile and elegant addition to any meal, bringing together zesty, salty, and buttery notes in perfect harmony. Quick to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s the kind of sauce that elevates simple dishes into memorable meals. Keep this recipe handy—it’s a true classic.

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