Caper-Mustard Marinade

Prep: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A vibrant tangy marinade combining tarragon vinegar, capers, Dijon mustard, and herbs, perfect for infusing poultry or fish with bold, savory flavors before grilling.

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Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp. tarragon vinegar
  • 1 Tbsp. olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp. drained capers
  • 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
  • 2 tsp. sweet pickle relish
  • 1/8 tsp. salt
  • freshly ground pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a small screw-top jar.
  2. Shake to mix well.
  3. Use at once or refrigerate up to 1 week.
  4. Marinate poultry or fish in the marinade for 1 to 2 hours before grilling.
  5. Brush any remaining marinade over poultry or fish while grilling.

Tips & Substitutions

For a zesty flavor, you can substitute white wine vinegar for the tarragon vinegar. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using a mild mustard instead of Dijon. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be added for extra freshness. This marinade also works well with vegetables, making it a versatile option for many dishes. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This marinade is excellent for grilled chicken or fish, adding a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside Cole Slaw Vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. It also complements rice dishes or quinoa, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Storage & Reheating

The marinade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Ensure it is in a sealed container to maintain its freshness. If you have leftover marinated poultry or fish, store it in an airtight container and consume it within two days for the best flavor. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Caper-Mustard Marinade contains roughly 8 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 609mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).

8 kcal
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.2g
Total Fat 0.2g
Carbs 1.6g 1% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 1.1g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 609.2mg 26% DV
Potassium 6.6mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.7mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.8mg 1% DV
Calcium 4.9mg
Iron 0.1mg 1% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this marinade for vegetables?

Yes, this marinade works wonderfully with vegetables! Just marinate your choice of veggies for about 30 minutes before grilling. It brings out their natural flavors and adds a delicious tang, making it a great option for a vegetarian meal.

How long should I marinate the poultry or fish?

For optimal flavor, marinate your poultry or fish for 1 to 2 hours. If you leave it longer, the flavors will intensify, but be cautious not to exceed 4 hours, as the acidity can start to break down the protein too much.

Can I make this marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This is a great way to save time on meal prep, allowing the flavors to meld while you focus on other aspects of your meal.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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