Fresh Basil Butter with Lemon and Garlic Recipe
Preserve the flavors of summer with this fresh basil butter recipe! Compound butters are not only delicious, but are a great (and freezer friendly!) way to add more flavor to any dish all year long.
Summer is in full swing, and its time to take advantage of that bountiful herb garden. This being said, is there anything more quintessentially summer than fresh basil? Believe me, a ton of basil growing in the garden is always a good thing.
Basil is a favorite herb for many folks, and is versatile for use in many recipes. Other than using it for the standard basil pesto, I am always looking for other creative ways to preserve fresh basil throughout the summer months.
The easiest way to do this? Homemade basil butter (or compound butter if you want to sound fancy).
Yes, you heard that right.
To make this fancy and delicious compound butter, the process is simple and straightforward. Basically, you will throw some softened butter in a bowl and season it to your heart’s content. Today we’re adding some finely diced basil, garlic, and lemon, but the options really are endless as far as compound butters go. Mix it up and serve it with a slice of warm bread (definitely the best way to eat it, but that’s just my humble opinion…).
Now go grab a couple sticks of butter and some fresh basil and let’s do this thing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
Tips for Preparing to Make This Recipe
- Butter: Softened butter is key in this recipe! Ideally, you will let the butter sit out for a couple of hours to soften. I used salted butter in this recipe and found that the butter didn’t need any extra salt. If using unsalted butter, it would be a good idea to sprinkle in a little salt.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have garlic powder, finely minced garlic cloves will also work! They add a powerful kick. I love to add in roasted garlic to this recipe and just call it basil garlic butter. Lemon zest can also be substituted if needed. I think zest provides the best flavor, but substituting lemon juice works just fine.
- Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs and flavors! I have used fresh parsley, rosemary, and chives in compound butter recipes with delicious results. Other delicious add in options would be parmesan cheese, black pepper, or even red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below!
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How to Make Basil Butter
- In a small bowl or the bowl of a food processor, place softened butter, garlic powder, fresh lemon zest, and finely chopped fresh basil leaves. *Note: If using a food processor, there is no need to chop the basil beforehand.
- Mix all ingredients together until just combined. Taste and adjust seasonings (adding salt to taste).
- Add to a small bowl and top with extra chopped fresh basil, if desired.
- Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for up to 1 month.
Ideas for Using Basil Butter
- This basil butter makes a delicious accompaniment to homemade bread recipes, especially this sourdough artisan loaf.
- Add to roast chicken or top a steak!
- Top veggies, add to mashed potatoes or pasta
- Add it in for a fun addition to a charcuterie board!
Recipe FAQs
When stored properly in an airtight container or plastic wrap, it should store well in the fridge for up to a month.
Yes. To do this, place the herb butter mixture in the center of a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape into a log shape and wrap tightly. Store in the freezer in an airtight container or freezer bags to enjoy for up to 6 months.
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Homemade Basil Butter
Ingredients
- 2 sticks butter softened
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1/3 cup finely chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- In a small bowl or the bowl of a food processor, place softened butter, garlic powder, fresh lemon zest, and finely chopped fresh basil leaves. *Note: If using a food processor, there is no need to chop the basil beforehand.
- Mix all ingredients together until just combined. Taste and adjust seasonings (adding salt to taste).
- Add to a small bowl and top with extra chopped fresh basil, if desired.
- Enjoy immediately or store in the fridge for up to 1 month.
Notes
-
- Butter: Softened butter is key in this recipe! Ideally, you will let the butter sit out for a couple of hours to soften. I used salted butter in this recipe and found that the butter didn’t need any extra salt. If using unsalted butter, it would be a good idea to sprinkle in a little salt.
- Substitutions: If you don’t have garlic powder, finely minced garlic cloves will also work! They add a powerful kick. I love to add in roasted garlic to this recipe and just call it basil garlic butter. Lemon zest can also be substituted if needed. I think zest provides the best flavor, but substituting lemon juice works just fine.
- Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs and flavors! I have used fresh parsley, rosemary, and chives in compound butter recipes with delicious results. Other delicious add in options would be parmesan cheese, black pepper, or even red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Storage: This homemade basil butter will store well in the fridge for up to 1 month.
- Freezing Instructions: Place the herb butter mixture in the center of a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape into a log shape and wrap tightly. Store in the freezer in an airtight container or freezer bags to enjoy for up to 6 months.
If you enjoyed this recipe for homemade basil butter, make sure to come back and leave a comment and a 5 star rating! Tag me on Instagram with your creations @ourhandcraftedhomeblog.
rachael
