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Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce

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This tomato lemon butter sauce is rich, tangy, and incredibly versatile. Perfect for pasta, seafood, chicken, or roasted vegetables, it balances the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of lemon and the richness of butter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or shallots
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/3 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp lemon zest
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed and chilled
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, sautéing until fragrant and softened, about 2–3 minutes.
  2. Cook the Tomatoes:
    • Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to break down. If using canned tomatoes, simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Add the Tomato Paste and Broth:
    • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.
  4. Incorporate the Butter:
    • Reduce the heat to low. Gradually whisk in the chilled butter, one cube at a time, until the sauce becomes smooth and glossy. Do not let the sauce boil.
  5. Season and Serve:
    • Add the lemon zest and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or basil, if desired. Serve warm.


Notes

  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
  • This sauce pairs beautifully with linguine, shrimp, chicken breast, or roasted asparagus.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.