Basil Butter

This is a delicious basil-flavored butter recipe. I love it tossed into hot pasta or on grilled veggies and corn on the cob. This simple yet flavorful recipe enhances the taste of your dishes with the fresh aroma of basil combined with creamy butter.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup packed fresh basil leaves

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   Start by washing the basil leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to remove excess moisture. It's essential to have dry leaves to prevent water from diluting the butter.
2. Blend the Basil and Butter
   Place the softened butter and basil leaves in a mini food processor. Process the mixture for about 20 seconds or until the basil is finely chopped and fully incorporated into the butter. You may need to scrape down the sides of the food processor once or twice to ensure even blending.
3. Form the Butter Log
   Scoop the basil butter mixture onto a piece of parchment paper. Shape the mixture into a log about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Roll the parchment paper around the butter log and twist the ends to seal it tightly.
4. Refrigerate
   Place the wrapped butter log in the refrigerator. Chill it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the butter to firm up. The butter can be refrigerated for up to 1 day before use.
5. Use the Basil Butter
   When ready to use, unwrap the basil butter and cut it into slices. Here are a few serving suggestions:
   Toss with Pasta: Add a slice or two of basil butter to hot pasta and toss until melted and evenly distributed. This creates a quick and flavorful sauce.
   Stir into Risotto: For a rich and aromatic finish, enhance your risotto by stirring in basil butter just before serving.
   Spread on Bread or Biscuits: For a delightful and aromatic addition, spread the basil butter on warm bread, biscuits, or rolls.
   Top Grilled Vegetables: Place a slice of basil butter on hot grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob to add a burst of flavor.
   Use on Grilled Meats: Melt a slice of basil butter over grilled chicken, steak, or fish to elevate the dish with fresh basil flavor.

Additional Tips

• Storage: If you don't plan to use all the butter within a day, you can freeze it. Wrap the butter log in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Slice off pieces as needed.
• Variations: You can customize your basil butter by adding other ingredients such as minced garlic, grated lemon zest, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added complexity and flavor.
• Presentation: For a decorative touch, you can press additional whole basil leaves onto the outside of the butter log before wrapping it in parchment paper.

Enjoy this versatile and delightful basil butter to add a touch of freshness and flavor to your favorite dishes!