Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sauce is bright, tangy, and packed with bold citrus flavors balanced by the spicy warmth of lemon pepper. It’s quick to whip up with simple ingredients and enhances any dish with a fresh, tropical flair. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or sautéing, this sauce elevates your meals with a burst of Caribbean-inspired zest.
Ingredients
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1/4 cup fresh lime juice
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1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
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1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Combine Ingredients:
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In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
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Add Fresh Herbs:
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Stir in chopped cilantro if using for added freshness and color.
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Serve or Store:
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Use immediately as a marinade, dressing, or dipping sauce.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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Servings and Timing
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Yield: About 3/4 cup
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Total time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
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Creamy Version: Mix in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy texture.
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Herb Variations: Substitute cilantro with parsley, basil, or mint.
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Sweetness Adjust: Adjust honey or maple syrup quantity to your taste.
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Garlic Flavor: Increase garlic for a stronger punch or roast garlic for a milder taste.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Keep refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 5 days.
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Reheating: Serve cold or at room temperature; no reheating required.
FAQs
Can I use bottled lemon or lime juice?
Fresh juice is best for flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Yes, it works well to marinate chicken, fish, or vegetables before cooking.
How long can I store the sauce?
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days; stir before using.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, ingredients scale up easily.
What dishes pair well with this sauce?
Grilled shrimp, chicken, fish tacos, roasted vegetables, and salads.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate; flavors will deepen.
Is this sauce suitable for vegans?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based.
Can I omit honey or maple syrup?
You can omit sweetener, but it balances acidity nicely.
How do I adjust the spiciness?
Add or reduce cayenne pepper or hot sauce according to taste.
Conclusion
Caribbean Lime & Lemon Pepper Sauce is a bright, flavorful, and versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Its zesty citrus notes and peppery spice bring a refreshing island flair to grilled meats, seafood, and veggies. Easy to prepare and adaptable, this sauce is perfect for adding vibrant flavor to everyday meals or special occasions.
Caribbean Lime & Lemon Pepper Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 3/4 cup
- Category: Marinade
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Caribbean Lime & Lemon Pepper Sauce is a bright, zesty, and flavorful condiment that blends fresh lime and lemon juice with the bold kick of lemon pepper seasoning. Perfect for drizzling over grilled seafood, chicken, or vegetables, this versatile sauce delivers a refreshing tropical flair that elevates any meal with vibrant citrus and peppery spice.
Ingredients
-
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
-
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
-
2 tbsp olive oil
-
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
-
1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
-
1 clove garlic, minced
-
1/4 tsp salt
-
1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
-
Combine Ingredients:
Whisk together lime juice, lemon juice, olive oil, honey, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until well combined. -
Add Fresh Herbs:
Stir in chopped cilantro if using for extra freshness and color. -
Serve or Store:
Use immediately as a marinade, dressing, or dipping sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a spicy kick.Mix in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for a creamy variation.Substitute cilantro with parsley, basil, or mint for different herb flavors.Adjust honey or maple syrup to control sweetness.Use more or roasted garlic to vary garlic intensity.
