Lemon Zest + Salt Substitute for Capers: Exact Ratio
Looking for a capers substitute? Lemon Zest + Salt works as a direct replacement. Use 1 tsp lemon zest + pinch of salt = 1 tbsp capers in any recipe that calls for capers. This swap works best for fish dishes, salads, roasted vegetables.
Best Substitute
Lemon Zest + Salt
1 tsp lemon zest + pinch of salt = 1 tbsp capers
Provides brightness and salinity without the brine flavor. Best when capers are used as a finishing touch for brightness rather than a main ingredient.
Tips When Replacing Capers in Recipes
Rinse salt-packed capers before using to reduce saltiness. Brine-packed capers can be drained and used directly. For extra flavor, fry capers in olive oil until they bloom open and become crispy: this makes an excellent garnish for fish, pasta, and salads.
What Is Capers and Why Substitute It?
Small, briny flower buds pickled in salt or vinegar, adding bursts of tangy, salty flavor to dishes. Capers are essential in piccata, puttanesca, bagels with lox, tapenade, and Mediterranean salads.
Lemon Zest + Salt is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of capers. For a complete list of capers substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full capers substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Capers?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use lemon zest + salt instead of capers?
Yes, you can use lemon zest + salt as a substitute for capers. Use 1 tsp lemon zest + pinch of salt = 1 tbsp capers. Provides brightness and salinity without the brine flavor. Best when capers are used as a finishing touch for brightness rather than a main ingredient.
How much lemon zest + salt equals capers?
Use 1 tsp lemon zest + pinch of salt = 1 tbsp capers to replace capers with lemon zest + salt. Works best for fish dishes, salads, roasted vegetables.
What is the best substitute for capers?
Lemon Zest + Salt is a popular substitute for capers. Use 1 tsp lemon zest + pinch of salt = 1 tbsp capers for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our capers substitute page.
Is lemon zest + salt a vegan substitute for capers?
Yes, lemon zest + salt is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to capers. Use 1 tsp lemon zest + pinch of salt = 1 tbsp capers.