Description
This easy garlic butter recipe combines softened unsalted butter with freshly minced garlic, parsley, and a hint of lemon juice for a flavorful spread or cooking enhancer. Perfect for adding a rich, savory garlic flavor to bread, vegetables, meats, and seafood, this versatile butter can be stored for weeks in the refrigerator or frozen for longer use.
Ingredients
Scale
Garlic Butter Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic paste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for added freshness)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated into a smooth, uniform garlic butter.
- Form or Store: Transfer the prepared garlic butter to an airtight container for immediate use or shape it into a log by placing the butter mixture onto parchment paper. Roll the parchment paper tightly around the butter and twist the ends to securely seal it.
- Refrigerate: Store the garlic butter in the refrigerator if you plan to use it soon. It can be kept refrigerated for up to 2 weeks while maintaining freshness and flavor.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: To extend shelf life, wrap the parchment paper log in aluminum foil or place it inside a freezer-safe bag. Freeze the garlic butter for up to 3 months.
- Using Frozen Butter: When ready to use from frozen, simply slice off the desired amount directly from the frozen log or allow it to thaw in the refrigerator beforehand to soften for spreading or cooking.
Notes
- Use unsalted butter to control the salt level precisely.
- Fresh garlic is recommended for best flavor; garlic paste can be a convenient substitute.
- Parsley is optional but adds a nice color and fresh herbal note.
- Lemon juice enhances brightness but can be omitted if preferred.
- Keep the garlic butter well wrapped to prevent it from absorbing odors in the fridge or freezer.
- Perfect for spreading on bread, melting over vegetables, or using in recipes that call for garlic butter.
