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Tomato Lemon Butter Sauce: A Delicious & Easy Recipe


  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Vibrant, creamy tomato sauce brightened with lemon and enriched with butter. Perfect for pasta, seafood, or chicken.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ripe tomatoes, preferably Roma or San Marzano, peeled and chopped
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into cubes and chilled
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (or more, to taste, depending on tomato acidity)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Score an “X” on the bottom of each tomato. Blanch in boiling water for 30-60 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. Peel and chop into roughly 1/2-inch pieces.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  3. Add chopped tomatoes and white wine to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until tomatoes have softened. Stir occasionally.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and sugar (to taste). Add red pepper flakes if desired.
  6. If the sauce is too watery, simmer uncovered for 5-10 minutes to reduce.
  7. Reduce heat to the lowest setting.
  8. Add chilled butter, one or two cubes at a time, whisking vigorously until fully incorporated. Continue until all butter is used.
  9. Add fresh lemon juice and stir gently to combine.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  11. Stir in chopped fresh basil and parsley.
  12. Serve Immediately: Serve over pasta, grilled chicken, fish, or vegetables.
  13. Toss with pasta, garnish with basil and Parmesan. Serve over grilled chicken or salmon. Use as a dipping sauce.
  14. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding water or broth if needed.

Notes

  • Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the garlic.
  • Use chilled butter for a stable emulsion.
  • Add the butter gradually, whisking constantly.
  • Don’t overheat the sauce.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning frequently.
  • Fresh herbs are key.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes