Easy Garlic Butter Recipe: A Simple Staple That Transforms Every Dish
Why Make This Recipe
Garlic butter is a kitchen game changer, infusing a burst of flavor into almost any dish with minimal effort. This simple yet versatile condiment can elevate basic meals, transforming them into gourmet experiences. Perfect for everything from sautéing vegetables to slathering on bread, this Easy Garlic Butter recipe is a staple that every home cook should master. With just a few ingredients, you can create a spread that’s rich, creamy, and full of garlicky goodness.
How to Make Easy Garlic Butter
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Directions:
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or hand mixer until all ingredients are well blended.
- Shape Butter: Transfer the garlic butter to a small bowl for immediate use or shape into a log using plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
How to Serve Easy Garlic Butter
This delectable garlic butter can be used in numerous ways. Spread it on warm, crusty bread for a delightful appetizer, or use it to flavor steamed or roasted vegetables. It’s also perfect for tossing with pasta or drizzling over grilled meats. The possibilities are endless!
How to Store Easy Garlic Butter
To store your garlic butter, wrap it tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap if you’ve shaped it into a log. You can also store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing it, where it can last up to three months. Simply slice off portions as needed directly from the frozen log.
Tips to Make Easy Garlic Butter
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality, unsalted butter for the best flavor impact.
- Adjust Garlic Level: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste; roasted garlic can be a sweeter alternative.
- Fresh Herbs: While parsley is a classic choice, you can experiment with other fresh herbs like basil or chives for different flavor profiles.
Variation
Consider adding a zing of flavor by incorporating lemon zest or a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. You can also mix in different cheeses, like Parmesan or feta, to create a garlicky cheese spread!
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but keep in mind that it will affect the overall saltiness of your garlic butter. You may want to omit additional salt from the recipe.
How can I make garlic butter vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with plant-based butter or coconut oil, and the recipe remains the same.
Can I prepare garlic butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! Garlic butter can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored in the refrigerator, or up to three months in the freezer. This makes it a great make-ahead option for easy meal prep.
Easy Garlic Butter
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use high-quality butter for best flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Adjust garlic level to suit your taste.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley Can experiment with other herbs.
- ½ teaspoon salt Omit if using salted butter.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.
- Mix thoroughly with a spoon or hand mixer until all ingredients are well blended.
- Transfer the garlic butter to a small bowl for immediate use or shape into a log using plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
