How to Make a Delicious Lemon Butter Sauce for Fish at Home

By Avi Green August 07, 2024

If you are a barbecue enthusiast, then you know the importance of adding a flavorful sauce to your fish dish. One of the most popular choices is the lemon butter sauce. Not only does it add a zesty and rich flavor, but it also enhances the taste of the grilled fish, making it more enjoyable. In this article, well explore how to make a lemon butter sauce for fish that will elevate your barbecue game.

how to make a lemon butter sauce for fish

Why Choose Lemon Butter Sauce?

Lemon butter sauce is a classic condiment for fish due to its simplicity and the way it complements the fishs natural flavors. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter, creating a balanced flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent. This sauce pairs well with various types of fish, from delicate white fish to robust salmon.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tablespoon capers, drained
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure to use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Mince the garlic finely and drain the capers. This preparation will make the cooking process easier and more efficient.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Be careful not to brown the butter; you want it melted but not too hot.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the saucepan. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Stir in Lemon Juice

Next, add the fresh lemon juice to the saucepan. Stir well to combine the lemon juice with the garlic butter mixture.

Step 5: Add Capers

Once the lemon juice is well incorporated, add the drained capers to the saucepan. Stir to combine. The capers will add a nice briny element to the sauce.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the capers are already salty, so you might need less salt than usual. Stir well to distribute the seasoning evenly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, remove the saucepan from heat and garnish the sauce with fresh parsley. Serve the lemon butter sauce hot over your favorite grilled fish.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Sauce

To make sure your lemon butter sauce is perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Melt the butter over low heat to prevent it from browning.
Dont overcook the garlic; it should be fragrant but not browned.
Taste the sauce before adding salt, as the capers can add a significant amount of saltiness.