Did you know that capers have 0 calories? These small but mighty buds add flavor and depth to many dishes. Whether you're looking to add some tang to your pasta or some bite to your sandwich, capers are a great way to spice things up.

But capers are more than just a tasty addition to your meals. They also offer some impressive nutritional benefits. For example, capers are packed with antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage. They're also high in fiber, low in fat, and a good source of vitamin K.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits, culinary uses, and types of capers, as well as some fun facts about these little wonders.

What are capers?

Capers are often pickled in vinegar, which gives them their distinct tangy flavor. They range in size from tiny nonpareils (about the size of a grain of sand) to larger capers the size of a peanut. In addition to the buds, caper plants also produce caper berries, which are about the size of a grape and have a milder flavor than the buds. The berries are often pickled and used as a garnish or added to salads. Capers have a long history in Mediterranean cooking and are a staple in many traditional dishes, from pasta puttanesca to salad niçoise.

Nutritional information of capers

A tablespoon of capers (about 8 grams) contains just 1 calorie and 0 grams of fat. They're also a good source of fiber, with 1 gram per tablespoon. Capers are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and reduce inflammation in the body. They're particularly high in flavonoids, which have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. Additionally, capers are a good source of vitamin K, which is important for maintaining healthy bones and blood clotting.

Health benefits of capers

The flavonoids in capers have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. Some studies have also found that capers may have a protective effect against heart disease, thanks to their ability to reduce cholesterol levels and improve blood vessel function. Capers may also have antimicrobial properties, which can help protect against bacterial and fungal infections. Additionally, the fiber in capers can help improve digestion and promote feelings of fullness, which may aid in weight management.

Culinary uses of capers

Capers add a salty, tangy flavor to dishes, making them a great addition to savory dishes like pasta, fish, and poultry. They're also commonly used in sauces like tartar and remoulade, as well as in dressings for salads and sandwiches. In Mediterranean cuisine, capers are often paired with other bold flavors like olives, anchovies, and garlic. They're also a key ingredient in the classic French dish, chicken piccata. When using capers in cooking, it's important to rinse them thoroughly to remove any excess salt and vinegar.

How to incorporate capers in your diet

Some ideas for using capers include adding them to pasta sauces, tossing them in salads, or mixing them into egg dishes like frittatas or omelets. You can also use capers as a topping for pizza or as a garnish for grilled fish or chicken. If you're not sure where to start, try adding a tablespoon of capers to your next tuna salad or sprinkle them over roasted vegetables.

Different types of capers

The most common type of capers are the nonpareils, which are the smallest and most delicate. They're often used in recipes that call for capers, as they have a milder flavor than larger capers. Other types of capers include the surfines, which are slightly larger than nonpareils and have a slightly stronger flavor, and the capucines, which are the largest and most pungent type of caper. In addition to the buds, caper plants also produce caper berries, which are about the size of a grape and have a milder flavor than the buds. The berries are often pickled and used as a garnish or added to salads.

How to store capers

Unopened jars of capers can be stored in a cool, dark place, like a pantry, for up to a year. Once opened, capers should be stored in the refrigerator and consumed within a few months. It's important to keep the capers covered in their brine to prevent them from drying out or absorbing unwanted flavors.

Capers vs olives

Capers are smaller and have a more delicate texture than olives. They also have a more tangy, acidic flavor, while olives have a more briny, salty flavor. Both capers and olives can be used in similar ways, like as a topping for pizza or in pasta dishes. However, capers are often paired with fish and other seafood, while olives tend to be used in heartier meats like lamb and beef.

Capers in Mediterranean cuisine

In Italian cuisine, capers are often used in pasta sauces like puttanesca and cacciatore, as well as in salads and antipasti. In French cuisine, capers are a key ingredient in dishes like chicken piccata and tapenade. They're also commonly used in Greek and Turkish cuisine, often paired with fish and seafood. In addition to their flavor, capers are also valued for their ability to add acidity and depth to dishes. They're often paired with other bold flavors like olives, anchovies, and garlic to create complex, well-balanced dishes.

Fun facts about capers

Capers have a rich history and have been used in Mediterranean cooking for thousands of years. In addition to their culinary uses, capers were also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, from skin conditions to respiratory problems. In ancient Rome, capers were a precious commodity and were even used as a form of currency. Roman soldiers also carried capers with them on long journeys, as they were a good source of nutrition. Despite their small size, capers pack a big flavor punch and offer some impressive nutritional benefits. So next time you're looking to spice up your meals, give capers a try!