The Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe – Rich and Tangy!

If you’re searching for a quick and flavorful sauce to elevate your meals, look no further than this lemon butter sauce recipe. With its creamy texture, tangy flavor, and velvety smoothness, this sauce pairs perfectly with seafood, chicken, pasta, and even roasted vegetables. Whether you’re preparing a fancy dinner or just looking to jazz up a simple dish, this sauce will become your go-to recipe. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Lemon Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Gather all the ingredients and have them ready before starting.
• Squeeze fresh lemon juice and zest the lemon.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Liquid Ingredients

1. Stir in the white wine or chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
2. Allow it to reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Lemon Juice and Zest

1. Add the fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to the sauce.
2. Let it cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Optional Creaminess

• For a richer sauce, add the heavy cream and stir until well combined.

Step 6: Season and Serve

1. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley.
3. Serve immediately over seafood, pasta, or vegetables.

Tips for the Best Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides the best flavor. Avoid bottled juice for this recipe.
• Balance the Acidity: If the sauce is too tangy, add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
• Make It Creamy: Adding heavy cream gives the sauce a luscious texture and balances the acidity.

FAQ – Lemon Butter Sauce Recipe

Can I make lemon butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.

What can I use instead of white wine?
Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water can be used as a substitute.

How can I thicken my lemon butter sauce?
Add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water, or cook the sauce longer to reduce and thicken naturally.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to avoid an overly salty sauce.

What dishes pair well with lemon butter sauce?
This sauce is fantastic with seafood (like salmon or shrimp), grilled chicken, pasta, or roasted vegetables.

Can I freeze lemon butter sauce?
It’s not recommended, as the sauce may separate upon thawing. It’s best made fresh.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 40mg
• Sodium: 70mg

Conclusion

This lemon butter sauce recipe is the perfect finishing touch to a wide range of dishes. Its rich, buttery base with a hint of tanginess from the lemon juice makes it an unbeatable choice for enhancing your meals. Simple yet elegant, this sauce is sure to impress your family and guests alike. Try it today and experience the magic of homemade lemon butter sauce!