THE ITALIAN SWEET-AND-SOUR SAUCE YOU NEED ON EVERYTHING!
If youโre looking for a sauce that can elevate any dish with minimal effort, look no further than agrodolce.
This Italian-inspired sweet-and-sour sauce is packed with rich, complex flavors that strike the perfect balance between tangy, sweet, and savory.
What is Agrodolce?
Agrodolce comes from Sicily, Italy, and its name reflects its signature flavor profileโa combination of โagroโ (sour) and โdolceโ (sweet). Traditionally made with vinegar and sugar, it has been adapted over time with ingredients like honey, capers, dried fruits, and nuts, creating a sauce thatโs both indulgent and balanced.
This sauce is incredibly versatileโdrizzle it over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, seafood, or even toasted bread for an instant flavor boost.
What Makes This Sauce Special?
ย ย ย โ Red wine vinegar adds a bright, tangy depth.
ย ย ย โ Honey balances out the acidity with just the right amount of sweetness. (You can replace this with date paste for Clean-in-15 or Whole30)
ย ย ย โ Capers bring a briny, umami punch.
ย ย ย โ Golden raisins & nuts add texture and richness.
ย ย ย โ Butter creates a smooth, glossy finish.
How to Use Agrodolce Sauce
This sauce is a game-changer for so many dishes! Try it over:
- Grilled meats โ Think steak, lamb, or chicken.
- Roasted vegetables โ Drizzle over Brussels sprouts, carrots, or squash.
- Seafood โ Pairs beautifully with salmon, shrimp, or scallops.
- Salad – Toss this into a hearty salad such as kale, cabbage, or brussel sprouts
- Toasted bread or cheese boards โ Spoon it over burrata or goat cheese for a next-level appetizer.
This bold, sweet, and tangy sauce is simple to make yet feels gourmetโperfect for impressing guests or just adding a little extra magic to your meals.
Agrodolce Sauce
The Italian Sweet-and-Sour Sauce You Need on everything
INGREDIENTS
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small shallot, minced
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced or roughly chopped
- ยฝ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 Tbsp capers with brine
- 1/3 cup pine nuts or slivered almonds
- 1/3 cup golden raisins (or sub with dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots)
- 2 Tbsp honey (sub with date paste for Clean-in-15 or Whole30)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 Tbsp/ 1-inch piece of butter (replace with vegan butter or ghee if desired)
- Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
- Chilli flakes to taste (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Heat a small saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the garlic and shallots and sautรฉ until soft and slightly browned (about 5 minutes).
- Add the red wine vinegar and simmer until it reduces by half.
- Stir in the capers, dried fruit, and nuts, combining everything well.
- Add the honey and let the mixture simmer for 4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Stir in the butter until fully melted and combined, then season with salt and pepper.
- Finish with optional flavor enhancers like lemon zest/juice, chili flakes, or fresh parsley for extra brightness.
