Are you ready to elevate your cooking game with a burst of flavor? Look no further! Capers are a humble ingredient that pack a punch, adding a tangy, salty taste to any dish. From classic Mediterranean cuisine to modern twists on traditional recipes, the versatility of capers is undeniable. In this article, we’ll explore 18 tangy recipes that showcase the best of what capers have to offer.
From savory pasta dishes to bright and citrusy salads, and from rich and buttery sauces to bold and spicy flavors, there’s something for everyone in our collection of caper-based recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these 18 mouthwatering options are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
Lemon Caper Chicken Piccata
A bright and citrusy twist on the classic Italian dish, this Lemon Caper Chicken Piccata is a flavorful and refreshing dinner option. With a tangy lemon sauce and a sprinkle of capers, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp capers, rinsed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together lemon juice, white wine, and chicken broth.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add the coated chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add capers to the skillet.
7. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve the chicken breasts with the lemon-caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Puttanesca with Capers and Olives
This spicy and savory pasta dish originated from Naples, Italy, and is a staple of Neapolitan cuisine. With the combination of olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies, this recipe is a flavorful and aromatic delight.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 anchovy fillet, finely chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced olives, capers, and chopped anchovy (if using) to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together.
4. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Salmon Bagels with Cream Cheese and Capers
Smoked Salmon Bagels with Cream Cheese and Capers: A Delicious and Elegant Breakfast or Brunch Option
This classic bagel recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked salmon, creamy cream cheese, and tangy capers for a delightful and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 toasted bagels
– 8 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bagels until lightly browned.
2. Spread a layer of cream cheese on each bagel half.
3. Top with flaked smoked salmon, chopped fresh dill, and capers.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Salad with Capers
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the richness of tuna with the tanginess of capers, all tied together with a hint of Mediterranean herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, parsley, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stir in the capers.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready to go straight away.
Veal Scallopini with Lemon Caper Sauce
Elevate your dinner party with this classic Italian dish, featuring tender veal cutlets smothered in a zesty lemon caper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal scallopini (thinly sliced)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season veal with salt, pepper, and flour.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add veal and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove veal from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add white wine, chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve veal with warm lemon caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Capers and Garlic
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Capers and Garlic: A flavorful and nutritious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with garlic, capers, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the Brussels sprouts and toss to combine.
4. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from oven and serve hot with lemon wedges (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Tartar Sauce with Capers and Dill
Classic Tartar Sauce with Capers and Dill Recipe
A tangy and savory condiment, Classic Tartar Sauce is a timeless accompaniment to seafood, vegetables, and meats. This recipe combines the brightness of capers and dill with the richness of mayonnaise.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped dill, capers, and lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready when you combine the ingredients.
Grilled Swordfish with Caper Butter
Elevate your grilled swordfish game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the rich flavors of caper butter and lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh capers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, lemon juice, and capers until well combined.
3. Season swordfish fillets with salt and pepper.
4. Grill swordfish for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread the caper butter mixture evenly over each fillet.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Eggs Benedict with Smoked Salmon and Capers
This classic breakfast dish gets a luxurious twist with the addition of smoked salmon, tangy capers, and toasted English muffins. A perfect weekend brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs, poached
– 4 English muffins, toasted
– 8 oz smoked salmon, sliced into thin pieces
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup hollandaise sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped capers for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast English muffins and set aside.
2. Poach eggs by cracking them into a pot of simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add smoked salmon and cook for 1 minute on each side, until heated through.
4. Assemble the dish: place a toasted English muffin half on a plate, top with a slice of smoked salmon, a poached egg, and a dollop of hollandaise sauce.
5. Sprinkle Dijon mustard over the egg and add chopped capers for garnish.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Capers and Chili
This classic Italian recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the bold flavors of garlic, chili, and capers. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 small red pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Add the chopped red pepper (if using) and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the capers and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
6. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add to the skillet with the garlic mixture. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Scallops with Caper Lemon Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this bright and flavorful dish that combines tender scallops with a tangy caper lemon sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large scallops
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the scallops dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet and sear the scallops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic, lemon juice, and capers to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in the butter until melted.
7. Serve the scallops with the caper lemon sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Salad with Feta and Capers
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with creamy feta cheese and tangy capers. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this classic recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens ( Romaine, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Drizzle olive oil and red wine vinegar over the salad, tossing to coat.
3. Crumbling feta cheese into small pieces, sprinkle over the salad.
4. Top with chopped parsley and capers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Chicken Saltimbocca with Prosciutto and Capers
This classic Italian dish is a flavorful and elegant take on chicken, paired with the savory sweetness of prosciutto and the tanginess of capers. The result is a harmonious balance of textures and tastes that will impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of prosciutto, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1/4 cup of white wine
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped prosciutto and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the white wine and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve the chicken breasts with the sauce spooned over the top, garnished with capers.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Deviled Eggs with Capers and Chives
These deviled eggs are a twist on the classic recipe, adding a burst of salty flavor from capers and a hint of oniony freshness from chives. Perfect for your next brunch or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise.
2. Scoop out the yolks and place them in a bowl.
3. Mix the yolks with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, horseradish, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Stir in chopped chives and capers.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves.
6. Sprinkle additional chives on top (optional).
Cooking Time: None! These deviled eggs are ready to serve straight away.
Beef Carpaccio with Capers and Arugula
Experience the simplicity and elegance of Italian cuisine with this refreshing beef carpaccio recipe, featuring tender slices of raw beef, tangy capers, and peppery arugula.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) high-quality beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup (30g) capers, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups (100g) arugula leaves
– 2 tbsp (30ml) extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Slice the beef tenderloin into thin sheets, about 1/16 inch (1.5mm) thick.
2. Place the slices on a large plate or cutting board.
3. Sprinkle capers evenly over the beef.
4. Top with arugula leaves, leaving a small border around the beef.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None (raw)
Tips:
– Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
– Slice the beef just before serving to ensure maximum tenderness.
– Adjust the amount of capers and arugula to your liking.
Baked Cod with Tomato Caper Relish
Baked Cod with Tomato Caper Relish: A flavorful and healthy dinner option that combines the tender flake of cod with a tangy and savory tomato relish.
Avocado Toast with Capers and Red Pepper Flakes
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy, spicy, and savory toast recipe.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe avocados
• 4 slices of whole grain bread (such as ciabatta or baguette)
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped capers
• 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (depending on desired heat level)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your toaster or oven to toast the bread.
2. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and mash them in a bowl with a fork until mostly smooth.
3. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
4. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of mashed avocado on each slice of toasted bread.
5. Sprinkle chopped capers evenly over the avocado.
6. Add red pepper flakes to taste, depending on your desired level of heat.
7. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Squeeze a sliver of lemon juice over the top (optional).
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on toaster or oven temperature)
Caesar Salad with Anchovies and Capers
Classic Caesar Salad with Anchovies and Capers Recipe
This timeless salad combines the bold flavors of garlic, lemon, and anchovy with the crunch of croutons and the tanginess of Parmesan cheese. A true Italian classic, this recipe is a staple for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, anchovy fillets, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Pour the dressing over the romaine lettuce and toss to coat.
3. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and capers over the salad.
4. Top with croutons and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to add a burst of flavor to your meals with these 18 tangy recipes featuring capers! From classic dishes like Chicken Piccata and Pasta Puttanesca, to innovative combinations like Smoked Salmon Bagels and Mediterranean Tuna Salad, these recipes showcase the versatility of capers. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or zesty, there’s a recipe here that will satisfy your cravings. With bold flavors and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be inspired to get cooking and add a pinch of personality to every meal.