Step 1: Cook the pasta.
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to the package directions. Before draining, reserve a small cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Gently cook the garlic.
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds, stirring frequently. Do not let it burn.
Step 3: Add the capers.
Stir in the drained capers and let them warm in the oil for approximately one minute.
Step 4: Combine everything.
Add the drained spaghetti, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a little reserved pasta water. Toss until the oil and water form a light coating around the pasta.
Step 5: Finish and serve.
Stir in the parsley and black pepper. Taste before adding any salt, then serve immediately with Parmesan if desired.
Why this recipe works
The olive oil provides richness, the garlic adds aroma, and the lemon introduces freshness. Capers bring the salty, tangy element that ties everything together.
If you prefer a milder flavor, begin with one tablespoon of capers. You can always add more next time.
8. Are Capers Healthy? What Should You Know About Their Nutrition?
Capers can be a flavorful addition to a balanced diet. Because they are usually eaten in small amounts, they provide plenty of flavor without adding much food volume.
Here are a few things worth knowing.
They are generally low in calories. Plain caper buds contain relatively few calories, although the exact amount depends on how they are preserved and prepared.
They contain plant compounds. Capers contain naturally occurring polyphenols and other plant compounds that researchers have studied for their antioxidant activity. However, eating capers should not be considered a treatment for a health condition.
They can help make vegetables more appealing. Their tangy flavor makes it easier to create interesting vegetable dishes without relying on heavy sauces.
They can be high in sodium. This is the most important nutritional consideration. Capers preserved in salt or brine can contain substantial amounts of sodium, depending on the product and serving size.
If you need to limit sodium because of high blood pressure or another medical concern, check the nutrition label, use smaller quantities, and rinse the capers before eating them. Rinsing can reduce some surface salt, but it does not guarantee that the capers will be low in sodium.
The simplest approach is to enjoy capers as a seasoning rather than eating large quantities at once.
9. How to Store Capers So They Stay Fresh
A jar of capers can last for quite some time when stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Follow these simple guidelines to get the most from your purchase.
- Before opening: Keep the jar in the storage conditions indicated on the label.
- After opening: Refrigerate the capers if instructed, and generally keep brined capers refrigerated once opened.
- Keep them covered: If the product is preserved in brine, keep the capers submerged in the liquid whenever possible.
- Use clean utensils: Avoid introducing food scraps or dirty utensils into the jar.
- Check the label: Follow the manufacturer’s guidance for the recommended storage period after opening.
Salt-packed capers may have different storage requirements, so follow the packaging instructions rather than assuming that every variety should be stored in the same way.
Discard capers if you notice mold, unusual discoloration, an unpleasant smell, or other signs of spoilage. Do not taste questionable food to determine whether it is safe.
Can you freeze capers?
Freezing is generally unnecessary for an unopened or properly stored jar of capers. If you have a large quantity, freezing may be an option depending on the product, but it can change their texture.
For most home cooks, buying a small jar and using it gradually is the simplest solution.
