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Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

4.9 from 75 reviews

This bright and flavorful Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce is a simple yet versatile accompaniment perfect for seafood, chicken, vegetables, and more. Made with melted butter, fresh garlic, and lemon juice, it delivers a rich, tangy, and aromatic taste that elevates any dish with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons juice)
  • 2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • Optional garnish: finely chopped fresh herbs

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter: Place the unsalted butter in a small pan over low heat and allow it to melt gently. Once the butter is lightly simmering, add the minced garlic and stir continuously for about 30 seconds to release its flavor without burning.
  2. Add salt and lemon juice: Remove the pan from the heat to prevent the lemon juice from cooking and losing its brightness. Stir in the kosher salt and freshly squeezed lemon juice thoroughly to combine the flavors into a smooth sauce.
  3. Serve: Transfer the lemon garlic butter sauce to a serving bowl. Garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme for added color and aroma before serving alongside your favorite dishes.

Notes

  • Using unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the sauce; however, salted butter can be used if preferred.
  • Add garlic after butter starts simmering to mellow out its pungency and ensure a smooth garlic flavor.
  • Add lemon juice off heat to preserve its fresh and bright citrus notes.
  • For extra lemon flavor, consider adding some lemon zest along with the juice.

Keywords: lemon garlic butter sauce, lemon butter sauce, garlic butter sauce, easy sauce recipe, simple lemon sauce, sauce for seafood, sauce for chicken, buttery lemon sauce