Name: Simple Lemon Capers Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 12 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
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)

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Introduction

This simple lemon caper sauce is a bright and tangy addition to many dishes. With fresh lemon juice, savory capers, and buttery richness, it pairs perfectly with fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables. It’s quick to make and adds a fresh burst of flavor to your meal.

A close-up view of a rustic bowl filled with a creamy yellow sauce that has small dark green capers and light green herb bits scattered throughout. The sauce has a slightly oily surface with a smooth texture and a wooden spoon resting on the right edge of the bowl, lightly coated with the sauce. Around the bowl, there are whole and halved bright yellow lemons and some fresh green parsley, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a small skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, but not browned.
Step 3: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, capers, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the butter until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, if desired.
Step 6: Serve warm over grilled fish, chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor twist, substitute the capers with chopped green olives if you prefer.
Make sure not to brown the garlic to keep the sauce fresh and bright.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Storage

This sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra lemon juice to loosen it up if needed.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy yellow sauce filled with small dark green capers scattered evenly throughout the smooth liquid, garnished with bits of fresh green parsley. The sauce has an oily, glossy texture with small bubbles and black pepper flakes visible on the surface. It is served in a white rustic round bowl with a wooden spoon resting inside, coated with bits of the sauce. Around the bowl are bright yellow lemons and fresh green herbs on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What dishes pair well with lemon caper sauce?

This sauce goes well with grilled fish, chicken breasts, pasta dishes, and roasted vegetables, adding a fresh and tangy flavor boost.