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Simple Lemon Capers Sauce Recipe

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4.9 from 10 reviews

A simple and tangy lemon caper sauce that’s perfect for drizzling over fish, chicken, pasta, or vegetables. This quick sauce combines butter, olive oil, garlic, white wine, lemon juice, and capers for a bright and flavorful addition to your meals.

Ingredients

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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 starts to bubble.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
  3. Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes to let the alcohol cook off or the broth reduce slightly.
  4. Add Lemon and Capers: Stir in the lemon juice, capers, and lemon zest. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for another 1–2 minutes.
  5. Finish with Parsley (Optional): Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley, if desired.
  6. Serve: Drizzle the sauce over your favorite fish, chicken, pasta, or veggies while still warm.

Notes

  • Use dry white wine for a more authentic flavor, or chicken broth as a non-alcoholic substitute.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to taste for more or less acidity.
  • Rinsing capers helps reduce excess saltiness.
  • This sauce pairs excellently with grilled fish, baked chicken, or steamed vegetables.
  • To make it dairy free, substitute butter with additional olive oil.