Zesty Herb Garlic Butter

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 5 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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Looking to elevate your meals with a burst of flavor? This Zesty Herb Garlic Butter is your go-to secret weapon. Perfect for slathering on warm bread or melting over a juicy steak, it’s a deliciously versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients for Zesty Herb Garlic Butter

Butter: The creamy base that carries all the other flavors, making everything indulgently smooth. Opt for unsalted to control the saltiness yourself.

Garlic: Provides a robust, savory depth. Finely mince to ensure the flavor is evenly distributed throughout the butter.

Lemon zest: Adds a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the richness of the butter, making it feel light and refreshing.

Fresh parsley: Offers a mild peppery taste and a pop of color, enhancing the visual appeal as well as the flavor.

Fresh thyme leaves: These tiny leaves pack a punch with their earthy, slightly minty flavor, balancing the butter's richness.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out all the ingredients' natural flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you're short on time, use a food processor to combine the ingredients quickly and evenly.
  • Freezing the butter in individual portions can save time later; just thaw what you need.
  • For a smoother texture, use a hand mixer to whip the butter mixture before rolling.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic butter is a match made in heaven with freshly baked bread or dinner rolls. Try it melted over grilled vegetables or a perfectly cooked steak. It’s also fantastic tossed with pasta or used to sauté shrimp for a quick, flavorful meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How long does this butter last in the fridge?
If stored properly, it can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze this butter?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and it will keep in the freezer for up to three months.

Zesty Herb Garlic Butter Recipe Walkthrough

Start by softening your butter; this makes it easier to mix and ensures the flavors are evenly distributed. Once your butter is nice and soft, add in the minced garlic. The finer the mince, the better it blends in.

Next, zest your lemon. Use a microplane if you have one—it makes the job a breeze and ensures you only get the flavorful outer skin, not the bitter pith. Toss that zest into the bowl along with your chopped parsley and thyme leaves. Mix it all up until those herbs are evenly speckled throughout the butter.

Now, season the mixture with salt and black pepper, starting with the recommended amounts. Feel free to give it a taste and adjust to your liking. Everyone’s palate is different, so make it your own!

With everything mixed, lay out a sheet of parchment paper and transfer the butter onto it. Roll it into a log shape, making sure it's nice and tight. Twist the ends to secure it, then pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least an hour to firm up before you slice and serve.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Infuses dishes with fresh, vibrant flavors.
  • Simple to make and easily customizable.
  • Perfect for storing and using whenever you need a quick flavor boost.
  • Makes any meal feel special with minimal effort.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
6 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic.
2. Add the lemon zest, fresh parsley, and thyme leaves, then mix thoroughly to incorporate the herbs evenly.
3. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.
4. Transfer the garlic butter to a sheet of parchment paper.
5. Roll the butter into a log shape, securing the ends, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up before use.

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