Lemon Butter Sauce

This Lemon Butter Sauce recipe is a quick and flavorful way to elevate your meals. With just a few simple ingredients like butter, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of brown butter, this sauce delivers a rich, creamy, and tangy flavor. Perfect for seafood, chicken, vegetables, or pasta, it’s a versatile addition to any dish. This easy homemade sauce is ideal for those looking for quick and simple recipes, buttery sauces, and citrus-infused sauces. Lemon butter sauce is the perfect complement for your next dinner, whether you’re making a fish dinner, shrimp, or a vegetarian meal. You’ll love its smooth texture and the depth of flavor it adds to your favorite dishes!

Ingredients:

• 6 tablespoons butter (cut into 1-tablespoon pieces)
• 4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 2-3 lemons)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• A pinch of freshly cracked black pepper
• 1 tablespoon hot water

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Cook the butter until it turns a light golden brown and emits a nutty fragrance. Be sure not to let it burn. Remove the pan from the heat and transfer the browned butter into a small bowl. Wipe the saucepan clean with a paper towel, or use another clean pan.
2. In the same saucepan, bring the lemon juice to a simmer with the salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to reduce until about 1 tablespoon of liquid remains.
3. Once reduced, remove the pan from the heat. Add the chilled butter pieces one at a time, whisking constantly to form a smooth, creamy sauce. Set the pan over low heat and continue to whisk in the remaining butter, one piece at a time, until fully incorporated.
4. Remove from heat and whisk in the reserved browned butter.
5. Just before serving, gradually whisk in 1 tablespoon of hot water in small increments (½ teaspoon at a time) to adjust the consistency to your preference.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Butter Sauce is the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and buttery goodness. It’s quick and easy to prepare yet packed with flavor. The creamy texture and the freshness of lemon make it a versatile addition to many dishes, from fish and seafood to chicken or vegetables. The nutty richness of browned butter elevates the sauce, making it feel indulgent without being overly heavy.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

• Tip for Brown Butter: Be sure to monitor the butter closely while browning to avoid burning it. The golden color and nutty aroma are key to the perfect flavor.
• Lemon Options: For an even more intense citrus flavor, add a bit of lemon zest to the sauce.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a high-quality dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan version.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can be added to the sauce for extra flavor.
• Additional Flavors: A splash of white wine or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add an interesting twist to the sauce.

FAQs

• Can I make this sauce ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Simply reheat gently before serving, whisking in the hot water to bring it back to the desired consistency.
• Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice yields the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch if fresh lemons aren’t available.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes! This Lemon Butter Sauce is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect addition to gluten-free meals.

Serving Suggestions

• Seafood: Drizzle over grilled salmon, shrimp, or scallops for a light yet flavorful touch.
• Pasta: Toss with pasta or noodles for a creamy and zesty dish.
• Vegetables: Serve over roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
• Chicken or Fish: Perfect for complementing grilled chicken, roast chicken, or pan-seared fish.

This versatile sauce is sure to become a staple in your cooking, adding richness and brightness to a wide variety of dishes!