by: Nini
March 1, 2025
source: Food Network | Halfdark/Getty Images
Ever bitten into something and thought, Whoa, what is that salty, tangy little burst of flavor? That, my friend, was probably a caper. These tiny green buds might look unassuming, but they pack a punch—one that can take a dish from “meh” to “wow” with just a spoonful.
I remember the first time I had capers. I was eating chicken piccata at some Italian spot, and I kept getting these little pops of briny, almost lemony goodness. I had no clue what they were. Olives? Some weird kind of pea? After some light Googling (and, let’s be honest, asking the waiter because I had zero patience), I finally figured it out. Capers. And from that moment, I was hooked.
So, what are capers, exactly? And how do you cook with them without just dumping them on everything? Let’s get into it.
What Are Capers, Anyway?
Capers are actually flower buds. Yep, not a fruit, not a seed—just the unopened flower buds of the caper bush, also known as Capparis spinosa. These little guys are picked before they bloom, then dried and cured in salt or brine, which gives them that signature salty, tangy taste.
If you’ve ever wondered why capers have that slightly pickled, olive-like vibe, it’s because they’ve been preserved for flavor. Fresh capers aren’t really a thing in cooking because they’re bitter and not all that enjoyable. But once they’ve been brined or salted? Magic.
What Do Capers Taste Like?
Capers have a bold, briny, and slightly lemony flavor with a bit of a peppery kick. They add an instant depth to dishes—kind of like olives but sharper and a little more floral. Their taste can be strong, so a little goes a long way. You don’t want to dump a whole jar into a dish unless you’re trying to pucker your face off.
How to Use Capers in Cooking
Alright, so now that you know what capers are, how do you actually cook with them? The good news is they’re super versatile. Here are some of the best ways to use them.
1. In Sauces and Pasta Dishes
One of the most classic ways to use capers is in sauces. If you’ve ever had chicken piccata, you know what I mean. That buttery, lemony sauce with capers? Absolute perfection. Capers add just the right amount of saltiness and acidity to balance out rich dishes.
They’re also fantastic in pasta. Toss them into a puttanesca sauce with tomatoes, olives, and garlic, and you’ve got a bold, umami-packed meal that’ll make you feel like you’re eating on the Amalfi Coast.
2. As a Topping for Fish and Meat
Capers and seafood are a dream team. Ever had salmon with a caper-dill sauce? If not, fix that immediately. Their bright, tangy flavor cuts through the richness of fish like salmon, tuna, or even a simple white fish like cod.
They also work wonders with meats like lamb or chicken. Just sprinkle a few over grilled or roasted dishes for an instant flavor boost.
3. In Salads and Dressings
Want to add a little zing to your salad? Chop up some capers and throw them in. They work great in potato salad, coleslaw, or even mixed into a vinaigrette. Just remember, they’re salty, so you might need to adjust how much extra salt you’re using.
4. On Pizza or in Sandwiches
Yes, capers on pizza. It’s a thing, and it’s incredible—especially if you’re into Mediterranean-style toppings. Try them on a white pizza with ricotta and arugula, or mix them into a tapenade to spread on sandwiches.
Do You Need to Rinse Capers?
This depends on how salty you want your dish to be. Capers that come packed in salt should definitely be rinsed before using unless you enjoy a salt overload. The brined ones are usually fine as-is, but if you find them too strong, a quick rinse won’t hurt.
Capers vs. Caperberries—Wait, There’s a Difference?
Yep, there is. Caperberries are the actual fruit of the caper bush, while capers are just the flower buds. Caperberries are bigger, milder, and usually served more like olives—often with stems still attached. They’re great in cocktails or on charcuterie boards, but they don’t have the same punchy kick that capers do.
Where to Buy Capers and How to Store Them
You can find capers in most grocery stores, usually near the pickles and olives. They come in small jars packed in either brine or salt. If you’re using them frequently, just keep the jar in the fridge. They last a long time, so you don’t have to worry about them going bad anytime soon.
Are Capers Worth the Hype?
Absolutely. These little green flavor bombs might not look like much, but they can completely transform a dish. Whether you’re tossing them into a pasta sauce, using them to brighten up seafood, or just adding a little tang to your salad, capers are a small ingredient that makes a big impact.
If you’ve never cooked with them before, grab a jar and experiment. Start with a simple dish like chicken piccata or a tuna salad, and go from there. Trust me, once you start using capers, you’ll find excuses to sneak them into everything.
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