Herb and Garlic Butter
A rich and flavorful spread made by infusing garlic and fresh herbs into softened butter, perfect for topping bread, vegetables, or meats before serving.
The Magic of Herb and Garlic Butter
As anyone who's ever tried to cook with garlic can attest, the smell can be overpowering. But when combined with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme, and mixed into a pat of softened butter, the flavor becomes rich and complex without being overwhelming. This versatile spread is not only delicious on its own but also pairs well with a variety of dishes. Use it to top toasted bread before serving as an appetizer, mix it into steamed vegetables for added depth, or rub it onto grilled meats for an aromatic crust.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, chives, or thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon zest or other spices for added flavor
Instructions
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Prepare the ingredients: Make sure the butter is at room temperature so it can be easily mixed with the other ingredients.
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Mix the garlic and herbs into the butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined.
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Taste and adjust: Give the mixture a taste and add more of any ingredient if needed. Some people prefer a bit more garlic or herbs depending on their personal taste.
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Use immediately or store:
- If using right away, spread the herb and garlic butter onto bread or vegetables as desired.
- For storing, shape the butter into a log or roll it into balls and wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for later use.
Tips and Variations
- For an added burst of flavor, mix some lemon zest into the butter along with the other ingredients.
- To give your herb and garlic butter a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Experiment with different herbs like dill or basil to create unique flavor combinations.