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Lemon Caper Sauce (for Salmon, Chicken & More!!)

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  • Author: Kim Cooks Easy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: About ¾ cup 1x
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian

Description

This Lemon Caper Sauce is a simple yet flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with salmon, chicken, pasta, and even roasted vegetables. Made with fresh lemon juice, butter, garlic, and capers, this sauce has a perfect balance of acidity, richness, and briny goodness. Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s a must-have for easy gourmet meals!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons capers, drained
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Sauté the Garlic:
  • In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter (or heat olive oil).
  • Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add Liquids & Capers:
  • Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
  • Stir in capers, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  • Simmer & Thicken:
  • Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes to slightly reduce.
  • (For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream and simmer for another minute.)
  • Finish & Serve:
  • Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.
  • Drizzle over salmon, chicken, shrimp, pasta, or veggies.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cream.
  • Thicker Sauce: Add ½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water to thicken.
  • Recipe Details

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~60
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg