Garlic Herb Butter Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Herb Butter is a simple and flavorful condiment that can elevate a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re spreading it over bread, melting it onto steak, or using it as a base for roasting vegetables, it’s a versatile addition to your kitchen. The recipe is quick and easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a few steps to achieve a creamy, perfectly flavored butter.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

– Butter, unsalted and softened to room temperature: 1/2 cup
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped: 2 tablespoons
– Fresh chives, finely chopped: 1 tablespoon
– Garlic cloves, minced or grated: 3 cloves
– Fresh lemon juice: 2 teaspoons
– Sea salt to taste

The combination of these fresh, aromatic ingredients results in a rich and vibrant compound butter that’s both fragrant and delicious.

Prep Time

Preparing this recipe is incredibly simple, and the prep time is just around 5 minutes. Mince the garlic, finely chop the fresh herbs, and mix everything together with the softened butter for a quick and complete step.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

There’s no cook time required for this recipe, as all the ingredients are combined directly. The total time to make the Garlic Herb Butter is approximately 5 minutes, and the yield is enough for spreading, melting, or incorporating into a variety of dishes. Use it for multiple servings depending on how it’s portioned and stored.

This Garlic Herb Butter is an indispensable addition to any meal, enhancing ordinary dishes with a fresh, buttery aroma and taste. It’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even casual weeknight meals.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic

Peel the garlic cloves and finely mince them. Alternatively, use a garlic crusher to create a smoother consistency.

Step 2: Prepare the Herbs

Wash your fresh herbs of choice (like parsley, chives, or thyme). Pat them dry completely using a clean kitchen towel or paper towel, then finely chop the herbs.

Step 3: Soften the Butter

Take the butter out of the fridge ahead of time and let it soften at room temperature. Ensure the butter is soft enough to be easy to mix but not melted.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the softened butter to a mixing bowl. Add the minced garlic and the chopped fresh herbs into the bowl with the butter.

Step 5: Mix Everything

Using a spoon, spatula, or handheld mixer, thoroughly combine the garlic and herbs into the butter until the mixture is uniform.

Step 6: Adjust Flavor

Taste-test your garlic herb butter mixture. If desired, season with a small pinch of salt or other preferred seasonings. Mix again to incorporate any additional seasonings.

Step 7: Shape the Butter

Lay out a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap on your counter. Scoop the butter mixture onto the paper and form it into a log shape. Wrap it tightly with the paper or wrap to secure its shape.

Step 8: Refrigerate

Place the wrapped butter log into your refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes, or until it becomes firm again. If you’re prepping ahead, you can also freeze it for long-term storage.

Step 9: Slice and Use

Once chilled and firm, remove the butter from the wrap and slice it as needed. Use it to enhance dishes like steak, bread, or vegetables.

Notes

Note 1: Substitutions and Variations

If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used as a replacement. Reduce the quantity if using dried herbs, as they have a more concentrated flavor.

Note 2: Storage Tips

Garlic herb butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s wrapped well to maintain freshness.

Note 3: Customization

Customize the flavor by experimenting with additional ingredients like lemon zest, red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Note 4: Serving Suggestions

This butter is perfect for adding to cooked meats, spreading on warm bread, or melting over cooked vegetables for an added flavor boost.

Cook Techniques

How to Melt Butter

To melt butter, place it in a small saucepan on low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it melts evenly without burning. Alternatively, microwave the butter in a bowl for 10-20 seconds, ensuring you keep an eye on it to prevent overheating.

Preparing the Garlic

Peel garlic cloves and mince them finely. If a stronger flavor is desired, use a garlic press to extract concentrated garlic juice and tiny minced pieces for even blending.

Chopping Fresh Herbs

Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and remove the leaves from stems. Finely chop the leaves using a sharp chef’s knife, ensuring uniformity in the mixture.

Combining the Ingredients

Mix the softened butter, minced garlic, and chopped herbs in a bowl. Use a spatula to thoroughly combine them until smooth and well integrated.

Shaping and Storing

Place the prepared garlic herb butter on a piece of parchment paper. Roll it into a log shape, securing the ends, and refrigerate it until firm for easy slicing when needed.

FAQ

What is the best type of butter to use for this recipe?

High-quality unsalted butter is recommended as it allows you to control the saltiness of the garlic herb butter.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity significantly as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor than fresh ones.

How long can I store garlic herb butter?

You can store garlic herb butter in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze it for up to 6 months.

Can this butter be used for grilling?

Yes, garlic herb butter works perfectly for grilling. Add it to grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables for enhanced flavor.

Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?

Yes, you can use plant-based butter as a substitute to make a vegan version of garlic herb butter.

How do I soften butter quickly if I forget to leave it out?

Cut the butter into smaller pieces and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, microwave it for a few seconds on a low power setting, monitoring it closely to avoid melting.

Conclusion

This garlic herb butter recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to elevate your dishes. Its creamy texture and herbaceous notes make it a versatile cooking companion, whether you’re enhancing vegetables, meats, or breads. Easy to prepare and bursting with natural flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll find yourself turning to time and time again.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Garlic Butter for Grilled Vegetables

Use this garlic herb butter to coat your favorite vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, and bell peppers before grilling for a smoky flavor with a rich herbal finish.

Garlic Herb Pasta Sauce

Toss freshly cooked pasta with a generous dollop of garlic herb butter for a quick and flavorful meal that’s both simple and luxurious.

Herb-Crusted Garlic Bread

Spread this butter on freshly baked bread, then toast it in the oven for an irresistible garlic bread everyone will love.

Butter Baste for Chicken or Steak

Brush garlic herb butter onto chicken breasts or steaks while cooking for a juicy, aromatic main dish bursting with flavor.

Savory Baked Potatoes

Blend this herb butter into the interior of a baked potato or use it as a topping to create the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist.