Simple Lemon Caper Sauce

Name: Simple Lemon Caper Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
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)

Isabella

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This Simple Lemon Caper Sauce is a deliciously zesty and tangy addition to any dish. Whether you’re looking to enhance grilled fish, chicken, vegetables, or pasta, this sauce is the perfect finishing touch. Made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, and capers, it brings a burst of flavor that’s balanced with a rich, buttery texture. The best part? It’s quick and easy to whip up, making it a great go-to sauce for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Lemon Caper Sauce for how incredibly versatile and simple it is. The combination of lemon and capers gives it a bright and tangy flavor that complements almost any savory dish. The garlic adds a bit of depth, while the butter smooths everything out into a creamy, velvety finish. I find that it pairs perfectly with everything from seafood to chicken or even roasted veggies. Plus, it’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner guests!

Ingredients

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

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)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a small skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.

Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, capers, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the butter until melted and the sauce becomes slightly thickened.

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

Serve warm over grilled fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Storage/Reheating

I find this sauce keeps well in the fridge for about 3 days. To store, simply place it in an airtight container. When it’s time to reheat, warm it gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, I recommend adding a splash of water or extra lemon juice to loosen it up before serving.

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FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat it gently before using.

Can I use frozen lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice is ideal for this recipe, frozen lemon juice will work in a pinch. I recommend using freshly zested lemon for the best flavor.

Can I omit the capers?

If you’re not a fan of capers, you can leave them out, but they add a unique salty and tangy flavor that really makes the sauce special. You could try substituting with a bit of chopped green olives if you prefer.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but I would reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid the sauce becoming too salty.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this Lemon Caper Sauce is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those following a gluten-free diet.

Conclusion

This Simple Lemon Caper Sauce is the perfect way to brighten up any dish with minimal effort. The vibrant flavors of lemon, garlic, and capers, combined with a rich buttery finish, make it a favorite in my kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and pairs well with so many different meals. Whether I’m preparing fish, chicken, or vegetables, this sauce is always my go-to for a flavorful boost.

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