How can one incorporate capers into everyday cooking?

Capers are a versatile ingredient that can easily enhance everyday cooking with their distinctive briny flavor. One of the simplest ways to incorporate capers is to use them in salads, where they add a tangy contrast to leafy greens, especially in Mediterranean-style salads with olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese. They also work wonderfully in pasta dishes; tossing them into a lemon-garlic sauce can elevate a simple spaghetti dish to new heights.

Another common application is in sauces and dressings; capers can be blended into vinaigrettes or added to homemade tartar sauce for a zesty kick. When preparing meats or fish, capers can be included in marinades or used as a garnish—pairs particularly well with salmon or chicken piccata. For those who enjoy cooking vegetables, capers can be sautéed with spinach or roasted with Brussels sprouts to add depth to the dish. Finally, they can be mixed into dips, such as hummus or tapenade, providing a unique flavor profile that complements the other ingredients. Experimenting with capers in these ways can bring exciting new flavors to everyday meals.