Simple Lemon Caper Sauce Recipe | Easy Mediterranean Seafood Sauce Idea
"This simple lemon caper sauce is tangy, zesty, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor. A quick and easy recipe that elevates seafood, chicken, or veggies into a gourmet dish."
Equipment
- Skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 2 tbsp capers (brined or rinsed salted)
- 3–4 tbsp unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 shallot, finely chopped)
- ¼ cup white wine or vegetable broth (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in skillet over medium heat. Add garlic or shallots and cook until fragrant.
- Deglaze with Lemon Juice: Pour in lemon juice (and wine or broth if using), scraping up browned bits.
- Add Capers: Stir in capers and simmer briefly to infuse flavor.
- Incorporate Butter: Reduce heat to low. Add butter cubes one at a time, whisking until melted and sauce becomes silky.
- Season & Garnish: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Finish with chopped parsley.
- Serve Immediately: Spoon over fish, chicken, pork chops, vegetables, or pasta.
Notes
- Fresh lemons matter: Bottled juice lacks vibrancy.
- Capers are salty: Taste before adding extra salt.
- Wine adds depth: Use broth for non-alcoholic version.
- Variations: Try creamy with heavy cream, spicy with chili flakes, or vegan with olive oil.
- Storage: Refrigerate for 2–3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop; avoid boiling to prevent curdling.