If you’re looking for a bright and flavorful way to elevate your meals, this Lemon Herb Butter Recipe is an absolute game changer. It brilliantly combines the creamy richness of butter with zesty lemon, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic, resulting in a versatile condiment that adds instant gourmet flair. Whether dolloped on grilled fish, melting over a steak, or spread onto crusty bread, this recipe brings freshness and vibrancy to every bite, making it one of those simple kitchen treasures you’ll want to keep on hand all the time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Lemon Herb Butter Recipe is incredibly straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in building its wonderful flavor, color, and texture. Freshness is key here to ensure that lively, aromatic punch that will brighten your dish.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): The creamy, smooth base that carries all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon): Adds a zesty brightness that lifts the butter’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Concentrates lemon flavor and adds a lovely fragrant note.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped): Delivers fresh, green color and a mild earthy taste.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped): Provides an herbal depth that complements the lemon perfectly.
- 1 clove garlic (minced): Brings a subtle pungency that balances the herbaceous profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
How to Make Lemon Herb Butter Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by placing the softened butter in a small bowl, then add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, thyme, and minced garlic. This is where the magic starts as all those vibrant flavors begin to meld together.
Step 2: Mix Until Smooth
Using a spoon or spatula, thoroughly mix the ingredients until the herbs and lemon are evenly distributed throughout the butter. This even mixing is essential to get consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Season to Perfection
Now, season your creation generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. Taste and adjust as you go to make sure the seasoning enhances without overpowering the delicate citrus and herb notes.
Step 4: Shape and Chill
Transfer the lemon herb butter mixture onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap, then roll it into a tight log. Pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step makes it easy to slice or scoop when you’re ready to serve.
Step 5: Ready to Enjoy
Your Lemon Herb Butter Recipe is now set and ready to bring a beautiful burst of flavor to your table. Serve it chilled or at room temperature according to your taste and the dish you’re pairing it with.
How to Serve Lemon Herb Butter Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a twist of lemon zest right before serving enhances the visual appeal and boosts the fresh aroma of the lemon herb butter, making every plate look as appetizing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This butter shines alongside grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or warm crusty bread. It also adds a fantastic finish to seafood dishes, steaks, or even steamed asparagus, turning simple sides into memorable highlights.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, slice the chilled lemon herb butter into coins and arrange them atop hot grilled meats or fish just before serving. You can also serve small dollops atop baked potatoes or mix it into cooked rice for an herby lemony touch that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any unused lemon herb butter tightly wrapped in parchment or plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to one week, ready to brighten your next meal with minimal fuss.
Freezing
If you want to make this lemon herb butter well in advance, it freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag; it can last up to three months without any loss of flavor or texture.
Reheating
When ready to use frozen lemon herb butter, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or let it soften at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve the fresh herb texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for this Lemon Herb Butter Recipe?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor and color, you can substitute with dried herbs if necessary. Use about one-third of the fresh herb amount and mix well, but expect a slightly different texture and less vibrant taste.
Is this lemon herb butter good for baking or cooking?
This butter is best used as a finishing touch or spread. Cooking it directly over high heat may diminish its fresh flavors, so it’s perfect when added to dishes after cooking or melted gently.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To create a vegan version, substitute the unsalted butter with a high-quality plant-based alternative. Make sure to check that the vegan butter is firm and not too oily for the best consistency.
How long does lemon herb butter last in the fridge?
When properly stored, this lemon herb butter remains fresh for up to one week. Always keep it wrapped tightly to prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
Can I adjust the lemon intensity in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder citrus flavor, reduce the lemon juice and zest accordingly, or if you love more tang, feel free to add a little extra. The recipe is very forgiving and customizable to your taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a simple dollop of Lemon Herb Butter Recipe transforming everyday meals into extraordinary experiences. Its fresh, buttery zing is like sunshine on your plate, bringing life and flavor with minimal effort. I wholeheartedly encourage you to whip up a batch and discover how this easy, vibrant butter becomes one of your kitchen staples you can’t live without.
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Lemon Herb Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 1/2 cup (about 1 serving as a condiment)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Lemon Herb Butter is a bright and flavorful butter infused with fresh lemon juice, zest, and herbs. Perfect for adding a zesty, aromatic touch to seafood, steaks, grilled vegetables, or bread. Easy to prepare and delicious served chilled or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, chopped thyme, and minced garlic.
- Mix Well: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until evenly incorporated, ensuring the herbs and lemon flavor are well distributed in the butter.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing again to include the seasoning evenly.
- Shape and Chill: Transfer the lemon herb butter onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape it into a log and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up and allow flavors to meld.
- Serve: Serve the lemon herb butter chilled or at room temperature as a flavorful accompaniment to seafood, steaks, grilled vegetables, or bread.
Notes
- Use softened butter to ensure easy mixing of ingredients.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and herbs to suit your taste preferences.
- This butter can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week or frozen for longer storage.
- Try using this butter to finish grilled meats or as a spread for warm crusty bread.
- For a stronger garlic flavor, add an additional clove of minced garlic.
