Garlic Herb Compound Butter

Garlic Herb Compound Butter

Garlic Herb Compound Butter is a simple yet flavorful addition to elevate any dish. Infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice, this butter is perfect for spreading on warm bread, melting over grilled meats, or tossing with roasted vegetables. It’s easy to prepare and can be stored for later use, making it a versatile staple in your kitchen.

⏳ Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
❄️ Chilling Time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped

1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

1/2 tsp salt (optional, if using unsalted butter)

1/2 tsp black pepper

1 tsp lemon zest (optional for brightness)

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter with garlic, parsley, chives, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.

Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Place the butter mixture onto a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.

Roll into a log and twist the ends to secure.

Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Slice and use on grilled meats, vegetables, bread, or pasta.

Tips for Making Garlic Herb Compound Butter

✅ Use High-Quality Butter: Opt for unsalted, high-fat butter for a rich and creamy texture. If using salted butter, adjust the added salt accordingly.

✅ Soften, Not Melt: Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature but not melted for easy mixing.

✅ Customize the Flavors: Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, basil, or smoked paprika to create unique variations.

✅ Storage: Wrap tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.

✅ Serving Ideas: Use on grilled steak, roasted veggies, baked potatoes, seafood, or as a spread for bread and biscuits.

Q/A – Common Questions

❓ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
✔ Yes! Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every 1 tablespoon of fresh since dried herbs are more concentrated.

How do I soften butter quickly?
✔ Cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, or microwave on low power in 5-second intervals.

Can I make this butter dairy-free?
✔ Yes! Substitute regular butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.

Can I add cheese to this butter?
✔ Absolutely! Parmesan or blue cheese can add extra depth of flavor—just mix in finely grated cheese.

Garlic Herb Compound Butter – Nutrition Information (Per 1 tablespoon serving)

Calories: ~100 kcal

Total Fat: ~11g

Saturated Fat: ~7g

Cholesterol: ~30mg

Sodium: ~30-50mg (depends on added salt)

Carbohydrates: ~0.2g

Sugars: 0g

Protein: ~0.1g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on the type of butter and specific ingredients used. Adjust sodium levels based on whether you use salted or unsalted butter.