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Simple Lemon Caper Sauce Recipe

4.2 from 35 reviews

A quick and tangy Lemon Caper Sauce that combines buttery richness with bright lemon juice and briny capers. Ready in just 15 minutes, this versatile sauce pairs perfectly with fish, chicken, pasta, or vegetables, adding a fresh, zesty flavor to elevate any meal.

Ingredients

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For the Lemon Caper Sauce

  • 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 starts to bubble.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Deglaze with Wine or Broth: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off or the broth to reduce slightly.
  4. Add Lemon and Capers: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, rinsed capers, and lemon zest. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  5. Finish with Parsley (Optional): Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
  6. Serve Warm: Drizzle the lemon caper sauce over your favorite fish, chicken, pasta, or vegetables while it is still warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • Use dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay for best flavor; substitute with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
  • Be careful not to brown the garlic to avoid bitterness—sauté just until fragrant.
  • Capers add a salty tang; rinse them well if you prefer a milder taste.
  • This sauce can be prepared quickly and is best served fresh but can be reheated gently on low heat.
  • Garnish with parsley for color and a fresh herbal note, but it’s optional.

Keywords: Lemon caper sauce, quick sauce, buttery lemon sauce, Mediterranean sauce, fish sauce, chicken sauce, easy sauce