Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
4 mins
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Cook Time
6 mins
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Total Time
10 mins
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Servings
4 servings (1 1/2 tbsp each)
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Calories
106 kcal
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Cuisine
American
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Description
The sauce begins by melting butter over medium heat until it turns a dark golden brown and develops a nutty aroma, a process that adds depth beyond plain melted butter. Minced garlic is then stirred in briefly to release its fragrance without burning. Removing the pan from heat preserves the delicate flavors as fresh parsley, thyme, and freshly squeezed lemon juice are incorporated.
Seasoned with freshly ground salt and black pepper to taste, the sauce maintains a balance between richness and brightness. It remains lightly textured and smooth, emphasizing the natural flavors of butter and herbs. This sauce pairs well as a finishing touch for dishes needing a buttery and citrus-herb glaze or dip.
Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to four days and reheated gently. Variations can include substituting herbs like chives, marjoram, or tarragon, or swapping garlic for shallots or red onion, allowing adaptations for flavor preferences or available ingredients.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter 1/2 stick, cut into 4 pieces
- 2 cloves garlic minced (see note 1)
- 1 tablespoon parsley minced (see note 2, fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme minced, fresh
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice from 1 lemon
- salt freshly ground
- black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- In a small, heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Cook, swirling constantly, until butter turns dark golden brown and has a nutty aroma, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Remove pan from heat and stir in parsley, thyme, and lemon juice.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper (I like 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper). Serve immediately.
Notes
- The sauce yield is approximately 6 tablespoons, enough for 4 servings at about 1 1/2 tablespoons each.
- Fresh herbs like chives, marjoram, or tarragon can replace parsley and thyme for different flavor profiles.
- Garlic can be substituted with minced shallots or red onion if preferred.
- Store leftover sauce covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently before use.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings (1 1/2 tbsp each)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 106 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1.5 tbsp | |
| Calories | 106kcal | 5% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 30mg | 10% |
| Sodium | 101mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 21mg | 0% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 434IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 3mg | 0% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.