Capers — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Capers should be small, green, and tightly packed in their jar, preserved in a clear brine to ensure freshness. Smaller capers are generally more desirable, as they tend to be more flavorful and less bitter.

Avoid capers that appear overly swollen or float in murky brine. Ensure the seal is intact to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Capers should be stored in a cool, dark place like a pantry until opened. After opening, keep the capers in their brine in a tightly sealed jar and refrigerate. They can remain fresh for up to a month when stored properly.

Exposure to air can cause capers to dry out and lose their flavor. Avoid transferring them to a container without brine, as this will reduce their shelf life. Ensure the jar is tightly sealed to maintain the brine's effectiveness. Always use a clean spoon to prevent contamination.

Capers can last for 1-2 years unopened when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and used within 1 year. Keep them submerged in their brine or vinegar to maintain their quality.

Leftover capers can be used in a variety of dishes to add a briny, tangy flavor. Stir them into salads or pasta dishes to provide a burst of flavor, or add them to tapenades with olives and garlic for a savory spread.

Use capers in a vinaigrette for salads or drizzle them over grilled meats or fish for an extra layer of taste. They can also be mixed into sauces like piccata or remoulade to accompany seafood or chicken. If you have a lot of capers, consider adding them to a bruschetta topping with tomatoes and basil, or using them in a pasta puttanesca for a zesty dish. Capers can also be sprinkled over deviled eggs or incorporated into a tartar sauce for dipping fried foods.

Capers are low in calories and rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin and rutin, which support heart health by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Their fiber content promotes digestive health by aiding in regular bowel movements. Capers are also a source of vitamins A and K, which promote bone health by aiding calcium absorption. Additionally, capers contain small amounts of iron, supporting blood health by preventing anemia and contributing to oxygen transport in the body.