Lemon Butter Sauce

Lemon butter sauce is a silky, flavorful sauce made by combining fresh lemon juice with rich, melted butter. It adds a burst of brightness and depth to dishes like fish, chicken, pasta, and steamed vegetables. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a go-to for elevating simple meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and effortless – Ready in just minutes with minimal ingredients.
• Bright and buttery flavor – The perfect balance of tangy and rich.
• Pairs with everything – Excellent on seafood, chicken, pasta, or vegetables.
• Customizable – Easy to enhance with garlic, herbs, or wine.
• Elegant yet simple – Makes any dish feel restaurant-worthy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. If using garlic, add it to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve warm over your preferred dish.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Creamy lemon butter sauce – Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream for extra richness.
• Garlic lemon butter sauce – Use 2 cloves of garlic for a more intense flavor.
• Lemon wine butter sauce – Add a splash (about 2 tablespoons) of white wine.
• Herb-infused – Mix in dill, thyme, or chives for different flavor profiles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat while stirring continuously. Avoid high heat to prevent the butter from separating. Do not microwave, as this may cause the sauce to break.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, just reduce the added salt to avoid over-seasoning.

Is lemon butter sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this sauce is naturally gluten-free if you avoid thickeners or additives.

What kind of lemon juice is best?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can make it up to a day in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat slowly before serving.

Does this sauce go well with pasta?

Absolutely. It’s great over plain pasta or mixed with seafood pasta dishes.

Can I add cheese to this sauce?

Grated Parmesan can be added, though it may alter the texture slightly.

Is this the same as beurre blanc?

No, beurre blanc is a French butter sauce that typically includes shallots and white wine, though they are similar in richness.

What should I do if the sauce separates?

Remove from heat and whisk vigorously. Adding a tablespoon of cream can also help stabilize the sauce.

Can I freeze lemon butter sauce?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture can become grainy or separated when thawed.

How do I thicken lemon butter sauce?

Simmering to reduce it slightly can help. You can also whisk in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) for added thickness.

Conclusion

Lemon butter sauce is a fast, flavorful, and luxurious addition to any meal. Its tangy richness pairs perfectly with seafood, chicken, vegetables, or pasta, making it a staple worth mastering. Whether you stick to the classic or try one of the variations, this sauce is sure to elevate your dishes with minimal effort.

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