Butter with herbs adds a special touch to the holiday table

Compound butter is a versatile mixture of softened butter blended with herbs, spices, or other flavorings

This 'fancy' butter is SO good when used to enhance dishes like meats, vegetables, or bread. Easy to make, it can be rolled into a log for slicing and stored in the freezer for convenient, flavorful additions to meals​.

Here are two herb butter recipes to try this holiday season (or any time!):

• Ingredients: Start with softened unsalted butter as your base. Add flavorings such as minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, thyme, or rosemary), lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Optional additions include chili flakes, honey, or even finely grated cheese.
  
  
• Method: Mix the softened butter and flavorings until evenly combined. Shape the butter into a log on a piece of plastic wrap, parchment paper, or wax paper, roll it tightly, and twist the ends to seal.
• Storage: Refrigerate for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage, slicing off portions as needed.

Chive Parsley Dried Tomato Butter

• Ingredients:
  
  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons dried tomatoes, finely chopped (rehydrate them in warm water if needed)
  • A pinch of salt (optional)
• Method:
  
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with chives, parsley, and dried tomatoes.
  • Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  • Spoon the butter onto plastic wrap or parchment paper, roll into a log, and twist the ends to seal.
  • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up before using.

Walnut Rosemary Cherry Compound

• Ingredients:
  
  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons walnuts, finely chopped and lightly toasted
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons dried cherries, finely chopped
  • A pinch of salt (optional)
• Method:
  
  • Mix the softened butter with walnuts, rosemary, and cherries in a bowl until evenly combined.
  • Shape the butter into a log on plastic wrap or parchment paper, roll it tightly, and twist the ends to secure.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.