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Simple Lemon Caper Sauce Recipe

Simple Lemon Caper Sauce Recipe

5.3 from 17 reviews

A simple and tangy lemon caper sauce that’s quick to prepare and perfect for drizzling over fish, chicken, pasta, or vegetables. Made with butter, olive oil, garlic, white wine, fresh lemon juice, and capers, this sauce adds a bright, savory flavor to any dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat Butter and Oil: In a medium skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until the butter melts and begins to bubble. This creates the flavorful base of the sauce.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown or burn.
  3. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off or for the broth to reduce slightly, enhancing the sauce’s depth of flavor.
  4. Add Lemon and Capers: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, capers, and lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 1–2 minutes to marry the flavors.
  5. Finish with Parsley (Optional): Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the chopped parsley if using. This adds a fresh, herbal note to the sauce.
  6. Serve: Drizzle the warm lemon caper sauce over your preferred fish, chicken, pasta, or vegetable dishes to instantly brighten and elevate their flavor.

Notes

  • Use quality unsalted butter and good olive oil for the best flavor balance.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice and capers to your taste for more tang or saltiness.
  • Serve immediately for best flavor and freshness.
  • Pairs exceptionally well with pan-seared fish like cod or salmon.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon caper sauce, lemon sauce, caper sauce, fish sauce, easy sauce recipe, quick sauce, Mediterranean sauce