Herb/Spice | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Carb Keto Mediterranean Low Calorie

Caper

Capparis spinosa Allergen-Free
caper

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Capparaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Caper flower buds

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero of Mediterranean cuisine: capers are concentrated flavor bombs, capable of brightening any dish."

Definition

The pickled flower bud of the caper bush, known for its distinctive pungent, salty, and tangy flavor, commonly used as a seasoning.

Sensory Profile

TasteSalty, Tangy, Pungent, Briny
TextureFirm, slightly yielding, small seed-like interior
AromaPungent, vinegary, salty, slightly floral
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Culinary Role

Used as a seasoning or garnish to add a pungent, piquant flavor.

Origin

Derived from the unopened flower buds of the *Capparis spinosa* shrub.

Sizes Available

Nonpareils (smallest, most prized) to caperberries (larger, fruit-like).

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 tbsp (10g)
Calories23 kcal
Total Fat0.9 g
Saturated Fat0.3 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein2.4 g
Total Carbohydrate4.9 g
Dietary Fiber3.2 g
Total Sugars0.4 g
Calcium40 mg
Iron1.7 mg
Potassium296 mg

Chef’s Secret

Rinsing capers before use can reduce their saltiness, allowing their subtle floral notes to shine through.

Substitutions

Best Match

Green Olives

1:1

Similar brininess and tang, good in sauces, salads, and as garnish.

Pickled Gherkins

1:1 (chopped)

Offers crunch and acidity, but a different flavor profile; good in tartare sauce.

Chopped Lemon Zest

1:2

Provides bright acidity and citrus aroma, lacks saltiness and briny texture.

Cornichons

1:1 (chopped)

Small pickled cucumbers, offer a similar tangy crunch but less pungent.

Buying Guide

Look for firm, unblemished capers, typically packed in brine or salt. Sizes vary; smaller ones (nonpareils) are often preferred.

Flavor Pairings

Fish chicken pasta lemon garlic tomatoes olives parsley cream sauces.

Recipes Using Caper

Easy Weeknight Taste Mood Easy

4 Delicious French Fry Toppers

Elevate your simple french fries into gourmet masterpieces with these 4 incredible topping combinations! Inspired by Good Housekeeping, these recipes are quick, easy, and perfect for a fun weeknight meal or a satisfying game-day snack. Get ready to discover your new favorite fry topping!

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30 Minutes Or Less Pasta Dietary Fish

Albacore Tuna And Bow Tie Pasta Salad

Craving that delicious Trader Joe's pasta salad? This copycat recipe lets you recreate the magic at home! We're using fresh albacore tuna for a truly gourmet experience (but canned works in a pinch!). This vibrant and refreshing salad is perfect for a light lunch, potluck contribution, or weeknight dinner. Get ready for a burst of flavor in just 30 minutes!

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Cuisine Tomatoes Course Low Protein

Algerian Poached Eggs Chakchouka

Dive into the vibrant flavors of North Africa with this Algerian Poached Eggs Chakchouka! This hearty and flavorful dish features eggs gently poached in a rich, spicy pepper ragout. A popular breakfast (or any-time meal!) in Algeria and Tunisia, this chakchouka is easily customizable. Enjoy it as is, add fresh shrimp or spicy merguez sausage for a protein boost, or leave out the eggs entirely for a delicious vegetarian option. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight dinner. Get ready to savor the sun-drenched tastes of the Mediterranean!

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Seafood Salmon Very Low Carbs Seafood

Almond Crusted Salmon With Capers And Lemon

Flaky, pan-seared salmon gets a crunchy almond crust and is finished with a bright, zesty lemon-caper sauce. This elegant yet easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Easily adaptable to other firm white fish like tilapia, halibut, grouper, orange roughy, or sole!

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Dietary Lettuces European Served Hot

Anchovy And Caper Dressing

Elevate your salads with this vibrant and flavorful anchovy and caper dressing, a Jamie Oliver inspired recipe! This zesty dressing is perfect for hearty salads, warm potato salads, or even as a marinade. The salty anchovies and briny capers create a delicious umami punch that will leave you wanting more. Quick, easy, and bursting with flavor – perfect for weeknight dinners!

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Salads Dietary 15 Minutes Or Less Easy

Anchovy And Caper Salad Dressing

A burst of umami flavor! This incredibly easy anchovy and caper salad dressing is a game-changer. Inspired by Jamie Oliver's 'Naked Chef,' this recipe combines briny capers and savory anchovies for a dressing that's anything but ordinary. Perfect for adding a sophisticated kick to your salads, pasta dishes, or even roasted vegetables. Don't be shy – this addictive dressing is a delicious secret weapon for elevating your meals!

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Low Protein Preparation Time To Make 15 Minutes Or Less

Anchovy Free Black Olive Tapenade

This vibrant and flavorful black olive tapenade is a quick and easy recipe perfect for your next appetizer spread! Inspired by the Australian Women's Weekly, this anchovy-free version is perfect for those who want to avoid the strong fish flavor, without sacrificing any of the delicious Mediterranean taste. Whip up this simple tapenade in minutes – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Low Carb Low In Something Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less

Anchovy Salad Dressing

Elevate your salads with this incredibly flavorful Anchovy Salad Dressing! Perfect for Niçoise salads featuring steamed green beans, ripe tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and baby greens, this vibrant dressing also adds a delicious punch to steamed broccoli. The salty anchovies blend beautifully with other ingredients for a complex and unforgettable taste. Be adventurous and try it – you won't be disappointed!

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Course Time To Make Shrimp Vegetables

Angel Hair Pasta With Shrimp And Creamy Lemon Caper Sauce

Indulge in this heavenly Angel Hair Pasta dish, tossed in a luscious creamy lemon caper sauce and succulent shrimp. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress! This recipe boasts bright lemon flavors, briny capers, and tender shrimp, all perfectly coating delicate angel hair pasta. Get ready for a taste of culinary heaven!

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Low Calorie Low Protein Dinner Party Course

Asparagus With Lemon Caper Vinaigrette

A family favorite asparagus recipe! This vibrant dish features tender asparagus spears tossed in a bright, zesty lemon caper vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish for any mild white fish or as a light and refreshing starter for your next dinner party. This make-ahead recipe is easy to double or triple, saving you time and effort. Get ready for a burst of fresh, lemony flavor in just 25 minutes!

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Occasion Time To Make South West Pacific To Go

Aussie Lamb Burgers With Goat Cheese And Tomato Relish

Savor the taste of Australia with these juicy Aussie Lamb Burgers! This recipe, inspired by "Simply Delicious Australian Lamb," features flavorful lamb patties coated in cornmeal, topped with creamy goat cheese, and a vibrant homemade tomato relish. Perfect for a BBQ, weeknight dinner, or any occasion. Get ready for a culinary adventure Down Under!

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Preparation Preparation Italian Fish

Baked Tilapia With Tomatoes Olives

Flaky tilapia fillets bake to juicy perfection in a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired sauce of burst tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and fragrant herbs. This easy, 35-minute recipe is budget-friendly and bursting with fresh flavors – perfect for a weeknight dinner!

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Lunch Course Lunch Occasion

Barefoot Contessa Pasta With Sun Dried Tomatoes Ina Garten

Indulge in this vibrant and flavorful sun-dried tomato pasta recipe, inspired by the Barefoot Contessa! Perfect for a summer dinner party or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is bursting with Mediterranean sunshine. This recipe easily serves 6-12, depending on your desired portion size. We've used fusilli pasta for optimal mixing, resulting in a rich and creamy sauce that coats every strand perfectly. The sun-dried tomatoes are the star of the show, complemented by a zesty garlic dressing, olives, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible taste! Get ready to lick your bowl clean!

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Main Ingredient Dietary Main Ingredient Beginner Cook

Barefoot Contessa's Panzanella Salad

Ina Garten's vibrant Panzanella salad, straight from her 'Parties' cookbook, is a summer sensation! This recipe features perfectly toasted bread cubes tossed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and a bright, tangy vinaigrette. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors, this crowd-pleasing salad is perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or a light weeknight dinner. Get ready to impress!

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Vegetables Served Cold Presentation Course

Barefoot Contessa's Roasted Pepper And Goat Cheese Sandwiches

Ina Garten's irresistible Roasted Pepper & Goat Cheese Sandwiches are a flavor explosion! This recipe recreates the magic seen on the Barefoot Contessa show, featuring perfectly roasted peppers, creamy goat cheese, and fresh basil, all nestled in crusty ciabatta. Prepare to be amazed by the simple yet sophisticated flavors. Pair with a fresh pea soup (recipe not included) for a complete culinary experience.

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Preparation Salmon 4 Hours Or Less Dinner Party

Barefoot Contessa's Salmon Cakes

Indulge in these delectable Barefoot Contessa-inspired salmon cakes! Perfectly pan-fried to golden perfection, these flavorful cakes are bursting with fresh herbs and a hint of spice. Serve them as elegant appetizers, a satisfying lunch, or a light yet impressive dinner. Pair them with Ina Garten's mango chutney (recipe not included) for a truly unforgettable taste experience. This recipe skips the lengthy chill time, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.

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Occasion Saltwater Fish Lunch Time To Make

Beer Battered Fish With Tartar Sauce

Relive the magic of Irish fish and chips with this crispy, golden beer-battered fish recipe! Inspired by a trip to Ireland, this recipe delivers perfectly crisp fish, thanks to the secret of frying in small batches. Use cod, haddock, pollack, or hake – any member of the cod family will work. Serve with your favorite chips (waffle fries recommended!) for an authentic taste of Ireland. This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. Pair with a crisp beer or an acidic white wine like Pinot Grigio for the ultimate culinary experience.

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Healthy 2 Time To Make Healthy 2 Pasta Rice And Grains

Biggest Loser Creamy Tuna Lemon And Garlic Pasta

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