Name: Lemon Beurre Blanc: A Creamy and Tangy Sauce for All Dishes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup white wine vinegar; 1/4 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons shallots, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes; Salt and white pepper to taste; Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra lemony flavor)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Lemon beurre blanc is one of those simple yet sophisticated sauces that can take your dish from good to mind-blowing. It’s a silky, buttery delight that marries a tangy citrus kick with the richness of butter.

The first time I made lemon beurre blanc, I couldn’t believe how a few humble ingredients could create something so luxurious. What’s more, this sauce is perfect for adding that gourmet touch to a weeknight dinner without a ton of extra effort (pair it with an Asian salmon dish for a delightful combination).

Now, I know the name might sound a bit fancy and French, but don’t let that intimidate you. It’s easy to whip up, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can nail it like a pro. Plus, who doesn’t love saying “beurre blanc” in a fake French accent while cooking? Just me?

Table of Contents

The Versatility of Beurre Blanc Sauce

While lemon beurre blanc is a classic, the beauty of this sauce lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to match your meal's theme by incorporating various ingredients. For instance, a beurre blanc recipe made with orange or grapefruit juice can add a vibrant twist, making it perfect for seafood dishes or grilled vegetables.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding herbs like tarragon or dill for an herbal flair that complements poultry or light fish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize the sauce to fit any dish, season, or occasion.

Lemon Beurre Blanc Recipe

For 4 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons shallots, finely chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
Salt and white pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra lemony flavor)

Steps:

Prepare the Base: In a saucepan, combine the white wine vinegar, white wine, and shallots. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to reduce by half. This will create a nice, concentrated flavor.
Add the Citrus: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and continue simmering for another minute.
Whisk in the Butter: Lower the heat and start adding the cold butter, one cube at a time, whisking continuously. This is where the magic happens! The butter will emulsify with the liquid, creating that creamy, dreamy sauce. Don’t rush – let each cube melt before adding the next.
Season & Serve: Once all the butter has been incorporated, season with salt, white pepper, and lemon zest if you’re feeling extra zesty! Serve immediately over your favorite fish, veggies, or whatever you’re craving that day

Notes:

Pro Tip: Make sure your butter is cold. This helps to create the proper emulsification and keeps the sauce creamy and smooth.

Experiment: Want to switch it up? Add herbs like tarragon or dill to complement the lemony flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 150 kcal
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 15mg
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g (includes both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats)
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Pairing Suggestions for Lemon Beurre Blanc

Pairing citrus beurre blanc with the right dishes can elevate your dining experience. This rich sauce works exceptionally well with a variety of proteins and vegetables. Consider drizzling it over perfectly pan-seared salmon or grilled scallops for a classic combination.

It also complements roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or even a simple plate of pasta. For a unique twist, try it with grilled zucchini or eggplant to add a creamy texture that balances their natural smokiness. With so many options, lemon beurre blanc can transform a simple meal into a restaurant-worthy experience.

#LemonBeurreBlanc #TalesOfAKitchen #EasySauces

Ready to whip up more simple yet gourmet recipes like this for Lemon Beurre Blanc sauce? Head back to Tales Of A Kitchen for more delicious inspiration!