Garlic butter is a culinary delight that elevates the flavor of many dishes, from shrimp to freshly baked bread. This simple yet versatile recipe combines the richness of butter with the robust flavor of garlic, making it a perfect addition to your kitchen repertoire. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or just want to add a gourmet touch to your meals, garlic butter is the answer.
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 10 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and no cooking is required.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (about 1 tablespoon): Calories: 100, Total Fat: 11g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Cholesterol: 30mg, Sodium: 5mg, Carbohydrates: 0g, Protein: 0g. This nutritional information is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by softening the butter at room temperature for easy mixing.
2. Peel and mince the garlic cloves finely.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic.
4. Add the chopped parsley and lemon juice to the bowl.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
7. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9. Transfer the garlic butter to a piece of plastic wrap.
10. Roll it into a log shape and refrigerate until firm.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute regular butter with vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Additionally, garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic if you’re in a pinch.
Serving and Pairings
Garlic butter pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, roasted vegetables, and crusty bread. It’s also fantastic on steaks or drizzled over popcorn for a gourmet snack.
Storage and Reheating
Store garlic butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply slice off what you need and let it thaw at room temperature before using.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold butter; always soften it first.
- Not mincing the garlic finely enough can lead to uneven flavor.
- Overheating the butter can burn the garlic.
- Skipping the seasoning can result in bland butter.
- Not refrigerating properly can cause it to spoil.
Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil.
- Mix in some grated cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Use a silicone mold for fun shapes when freezing.
FAQs
What can I use garlic butter for?
Garlic butter is incredibly versatile. Use it on seafood, vegetables, pasta, or as a spread on bread. It enhances the flavor of nearly any dish.
Can I make garlic butter ahead of time?
Absolutely! Garlic butter can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
How long does garlic butter last?
Stored in the fridge, garlic butter can last for up to 2 weeks. If frozen, it can be kept for about 3 months.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor.
Is garlic butter healthy?
While garlic butter is delicious, it should be used in moderation due to its high-fat content. However, garlic itself has health benefits, including antioxidant properties.
Conclusion
Garlic butter is a simple yet luxurious addition to any meal, enhancing flavors and impressing your guests. With its ease of preparation and versatility, this recipe is a must-have in your culinary toolkit. Enjoy the rich, savory taste that garlic butter brings to your dishes!
Garlic Butter
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4-6 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Soften the butter at room temperature.
- Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
- Combine softened butter and minced garlic in a bowl.
- Add chopped parsley and lemon juice.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer to plastic wrap and roll into a log.
- Refrigerate until firm.
- Slice and serve as desired.
