This vibrant Lemon and Herb Sauce recipe is the perfect low carb and keto-friendly addition to various grilled dishes. Perfect for bringing a fresh, zesty kick to seafood, cheeses like halloumi, and more...
The balanced and delightful blend of ingredients makes it a great choice for those following a low carb or keto diet. Let's learn how to pack in a ton of flavor into each bite.
This lemon and herb sauce recipe is LOW CARB, KETO-FRIENDLY and GLUTEN-FREE.
The Inspiration for My Lemon and Herb Sauce
Before I started my low carb journey in 2017, one of my go-to recipes was a Lebanese hummus pizza. It was a hit in our family – a simple flatbread pizza topped with hummus, feta cheese, and this zesty lemon and herb sauce.
When I switched to a low carb lifestyle, this pizza took a backseat like many other favorites. I started revisiting some of these old recipes, thinking about how I could adapt them.
The breakthrough came with pan-fried halloumi cheese. It was the perfect low carb substitute for my pizza base. Topping the grilled halloumi with my old lemon and herb sauce worked beautifully.
This sauce is more than just a recipe for me. It's about keeping those family favorites alive and well, even as my diet changes.
Is this Lemon and Herb Sauce Low Carb or Keto?
Yes, this Lemon and Herb Sauce is both low carb and keto-friendly.
The ingredients – fresh herbs, lemon, olive oil, and capers – are all staples in a low carb or ketogenic diet. They are naturally low in carbohydrates and don't contain sugars or starches that can spike blood sugar levels. The sauce's main components, like olive oil and lemon, are also known for their health benefits, including healthy fats and antioxidants.
Enjoy it over various dishes and rest assured that it complements both the low carb and keto lifestyles.
What are the Ingredients Needed to Make the Lemon and Herb Sauce?
- Shallots: These add a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the tanginess of the lemon without overpowering the sauce.
- Capers: Their briny, salty taste brings depth and a unique punch to the sauce, balancing the other flavors.
- Fresh Parsley: Parsley provides a freshness that enhances the sauce's overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Chives: Chives contribute a delicate onion-like flavor, adding another layer of taste without being too intense.
- Olive Oil: Acts as the perfect base, giving the sauce a smooth texture while also infusing it with a rich, fruity flavor.
- Lemon Juice: The acidity and zestiness of lemon juice brighten up the sauce, giving it a refreshing and vibrant taste.
- Finely Chopped Lemon: Including finely chopped lemon adds a burst of citrusy flavor and a slight texture to the sauce.
- Garlic: Garlic brings a warm, aromatic quality that’s essential to rounding out the sauce’s flavor profile. Be sure only to use fresh or roasted garlic... old garlic will be overpowering!
- Red Chili Flakes: These offer a subtle heat, adding a spicy kick that can be adjusted to suit your taste.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, helping to mellow out the garlic and shallot, allowing them to compliment the sauce.
- Fresh Cracked Pepper: Adds a slight sharpness and warmth, which is perfect for complementing the bright flavors of the lemon and herbs.
What other herbs can be used in this sauce?
You can experiment with dill, mint, or basil for different flavor profiles. Each herb brings its unique character to the sauce, offering versatility in taste.
Will the raw garlic and shallot mellow out?
Yes, as the sauce sits, especially after about 30 minutes, the raw edge of garlic and shallot softens, blending more subtly into the overall flavor.
How to Make Your Own Lemon and Herb Sauce Recipe
Start by finely dicing shallots and chopping your capers, fresh parsley, and chives. Combine these in a bowl with olive oil, which serves as the base of your sauce.
Next, add freshly squeezed lemon juice and finely chopped lemon pieces for that zesty kick. Incorporate minced garlic for depth of flavor and, if you like a bit of heat, throw in some red chili flakes.
Season the mixture with salt and fresh cracked pepper to taste. Once all ingredients are mixed well, let the sauce sit for a while, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sharpness of the raw garlic and shallots to mellow.
NOTE: This resting period is crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. Once ready, this sauce can be used as a delightful topping for a ton of low carb or keto-friendly dishes.
Make this lemon and herb sauce today:
I've tried to photograph the key points to this lemon and herb sauce recipe so you can recreate it in your own kitchen. If you have questions, please ask in the comments!
Why doesn't your lemon and herb sauce have butter?
This is a different type of sauce than a lemon butter sauce. This sauce is created to be raw and has amazing high notes that counterbalance fish, pork, or chicken. Butter-based sauces are designed to round out the flavors.
Can I heat this lemon and herb sauce to serve over fish or chicken?
Although you could heat this sauce, I would think twice before doing it. It is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, with all of the ingredients adding crunch, texture and bursts of flavor.
Storing the Lemon and Herb Sauce
When it comes to storing your Lemon and Herb Sauce, the key is to avoid freezing it. Freezing can significantly alter the flavors and textures of the fresh ingredients, detracting from the sauce’s overall deliciousness.
Instead, store the sauce in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This method will help preserve its fresh, vibrant flavors for a few days. Remember to give it a good stir before using it again, as some separation may occur. For optimal taste, it's best to consume the sauce within a few days of making it.
This Lemon and Herb Sauce Tastes Great On:
Pan-Seared Halloumi: Discover how this sauce elevates the salty, crisp texture of pan-seared halloumi, adding a burst of freshness to each bite.
Crispy Rotisserie Chicken: Drizzle it over crispy rotisserie chicken for a zesty twist that complements the juicy, flavorful meat perfectly.
Tender Steak Tartare: Transform your steak tartare with a dollop of this sauce, adding layers of complexity and bright flavors to the rich dish.
Grilled Lamb Chops: Pair it with grilled lamb chops for a refreshing contrast to the smoky, tender meat, enhancing its natural flavors.
Flat Iron Pan-Seared Steak: Elevate a simple flat iron steak by topping it with this sauce, creating a harmonious blend of beef and herbal notes.
Love this Sauce? Find Other Recipes Like It:
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Spicy Remoulade Sauce: A delight over crab cakes, as a dipping sauce for shrimp or an unconventional pairing with sliced red peppers or carrot sticks. It's delicious and easy to make... ready in minutes.
Delicious Pesto Sauce: Dive into the rich, herby goodness of this Delicious Pesto Sauce, an ideal companion for wings, salads or as a flavorful dip.
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Blue Cheese Sauce: Discover the bold and creamy world of this Blue Cheese Sauce, a perfect match for steaks, burgers, or as a unique dip.
Lemon and herb sauce
This Lemon and Herb blend is a vibrant and tangy sauce that adds a fresh, zesty kick to grilled dishes, especially seafood and cheese like halloumi. Combining fresh herbs, lemon, and capers creates a delightful accompaniment to various low carb or keto-friendly proteins!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Shallots, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons Capers, roughly chopped
- 3 tablespoons Fresh parsley, roughly chopped
- 2 tablespoons Fresh chives, chopped
- 3 tablespoons Olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons Finely chopped lemon (no zest)
- 1 Garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon Red chili flakes
- ½ teaspoon Kosher Salt
- Fresh cracked pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the shallots, capers, parsley, and chives.
- Add the olive oil, lemon juice, and finely chopped lemon.
- Mix in the minced garlic, red chili flakes (if using), salt, and fresh cracked pepper.
- Stir all ingredients well to ensure they are thoroughly combined.
- Let the sauce rest for about a half hour to allow the flavors to blend.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
- Serve over grilled halloumi, fish, or your choice of protein for a refreshing addition!
Notes
- Allow Flavors to Meld: After preparing the sauce, let it sit for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend together and reduces the pungency of the garlic and shallots, creating a more balanced and subtle taste.
- Finely Chop Ingredients: Ensure that the shallots, capers, and herbs are finely chopped. This helps to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the sauce and makes it more pleasant to eat, especially when used as a topping.
- Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the quantities of lemon juice, chili flakes, salt, and pepper according to your taste preferences. Some might prefer a tangier sauce with more lemon, while others might like it spicier with additional chili flakes.
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially the herbs and lemon. Fresh herbs will give a more vibrant taste compared to dried ones. I've never used dried herbs in this recipe before, so proceed at your own risk.
- Pairing with Dishes: This sauce pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s especially delightful over grilled halloumi or fish, but you can also try it with chicken, vegetables, or even as a dressing for a fresh salad.
- Storing the Sauce: If you have leftover sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for up to a couple of days. The flavor might intensify with time so that it could be even more delicious the next day... or more pungent. Depends on the shallots and garlic.
- Serving Temperature: This sauce can be served at room temperature. If it has been refrigerated, take it out a little while before serving to allow it to come to room temperature, which enhances the flavor a bit.
- Adding Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a bit of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the sauce. This modification will give it a smoother, richer consistency. It turns into an amazing low carb dip!
- Experiment with Herbs: Don't hesitate to experiment with different herbs based on availability and preference. For instance, adding a bit of fresh mint or dill could offer a new flavor profile.
Did you make this recipe?
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