Artificial Flavors Free Watercress Lemon Sauce
Bright, peppery watercress meets fresh lemon in a silky blended sauce that comes together in just a few minutes with nothing but whole, recognizable ingredients. Every element here is exactly what it looks like — leafy greens, citrus, garlic, olive oil, and a pinch of sea salt — so there's no guessing what's actually in your food. Store-bought sauces and condiments are notorious for sneaking in synthetic flavor enhancers, but this one is built entirely from scratch with nothing artificial in sight. The technique is simple: blend the greens and aromatics first, then stream in the olive oil to create a smooth, emulsified pour that clings beautifully to whatever it touches. It's stunning drizzled over grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or a simple grain bowl, and that vivid green color makes everything on the plate look like it came from a restaurant kitchen. The optional parsley deepens the herbal note without overpowering the sharp, clean brightness of the lemon zest. Keep a jar of this in the fridge and you'll find yourself reaching for it constantly.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
- 2 cups fresh watercress, thick stems removed
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 small clove garlic, roughly chopped
- ¼ tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
- ⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, roughly chopped (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the watercress, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, water, salt, and black pepper in a blender or food processor. Add the parsley, if using.
- 2
Blend on high speed for 30 seconds, until the greens are fully broken down and the mixture is a uniform, bright green purée.
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