Having a few easy, versatile sauces on hand makes weeknight cooking so much simpler. This lemon garlic butter sauce is one I rely on to elevate simple meals in under 10 minutes. With just a handful of common ingredients, it adds a bright, savory finish to pasta, vegetables, chicken, steak, fish and seafood. The combination of butter and olive oil gives it richness, while fresh lemon and garlic bring a lively Mediterranean flavor. Finish with parsley for color and freshness — it’s quick, reliable, and delicious.
This sauce is inspired by classic Italian and French flavors but remains wonderfully simple. Start by gently sautéing minced garlic in a mix of butter and extra-virgin olive oil to build a savory base. Add lemon zest and fresh lemon juice for brightness and finish with chopped flat-leaf parsley. The aroma alone is inviting, and the result is a silky, versatile sauce that pairs with countless dishes.
“The most perfect sauce!!!
So quick, easy and versatile and most of all, delicious!”marian
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce Ingredients
- Butter: I prefer European-style butter for its richer flavor and higher fat content.
- Olive Oil: Choose a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil to complement the butter.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves and mince just before cooking for the best aroma and flavor.
- Lemon: Use both zest and juice from a fresh lemon for brightness.
- Parsley: Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley adds freshness; fresh is far superior to dried.
- Kosher Salt: Adjust to taste; if using fine sea salt, reduce the amount slightly.
6 Recipe Tips
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon and parsley make a noticeable difference.
- Control the heat: Sauté garlic over medium to medium-low so it softens and becomes fragrant without browning.
- Zest before juicing: Zesting the lemon first is easier and prevents adding bitter pith to the sauce.
- Adjust to taste: Add more lemon for brightness or a pinch more salt to enhance the flavors.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the sauce a few hours in advance and reheat gently before serving.
- Double easily: The recipe scales well if you need more for a crowd.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool completely before refrigerating. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a teaspoon of water or broth until you reach the desired consistency.
Although seafood is a classic match for this lemon garlic butter sauce, it also works beautifully with roasted or grilled vegetables, chicken, steak, or tossed with pasta for a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a small addition that makes meals feel more special and is a great recipe to keep in your repertoire.
More Lemon Garlic Recipes You’ll Love
Lemon Garlic Pasta
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Lemon Garlic Asparagus
How to make Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Heat butter and olive oil in a small saucepan or skillet over medium heat until sizzling. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant — about 30 seconds. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest, lemon juice and minced parsley. Season with kosher salt to taste and serve immediately.
Lemon Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 large garlic cloves minced
- 1 large lemon juice and zest
- 1 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- kosher salt to taste
Instructions
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Heat butter and olive oil in a small saucepan or skillet over medium heat until sizzling. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and juice, then parsley. Season with salt to taste and serve.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.
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