Butter Boards with Herbs and Toppings Recipe
Introduction
Butter boards are a delightful and visually appealing way to serve butter as a flavorful centerpiece for any gathering. They combine rich butter with herbs, salt, and a variety of toppings, perfect for spreading on fresh bread.
Ingredients
- Butter (softened, about 1 cup)
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or chives, chopped)
- Flaky sea salt (to taste)
- Toppings (such as edible flowers, nuts, olives, or lemon zest)
Instructions
- Step 1: Spread the softened butter evenly across a serving board or platter, creating a thick, textured layer.
- Step 2: Sprinkle fresh herbs and flaky sea salt over the butter to add flavor and visual appeal.
- Step 3: Arrange your chosen toppings decoratively on top of the butter, mixing colors and textures for an inviting look.
- Step 4: Serve the butter board alongside a variety of breads, allowing guests to spread and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mix of fresh and dried herbs to add depth of flavor.
- Incorporate a drizzle of honey or a splash of olive oil for a subtle sweetness and richness.
- Try different toppings like roasted garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, or crumbled cheese for unique twists.
- For a festive touch, add colorful edible flowers or finely chopped chili flakes for mild heat.
Storage
If not serving immediately, cover the butter board tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving to soften the butter. Leftover butter can be scraped off and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter for a butter board?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but consider reducing the added salt to avoid overpowering the flavors.
What types of bread work best with a butter board?
Fresh crusty breads like baguette, sourdough, or rustic country loaves are ideal as they hold up well and complement the rich butter flavors.
PrintButter Boards with Herbs and Toppings Recipe
Butter boards are a delightful and visually appealing way to serve butter combined with herbs, salt, and flavorful toppings. This simple yet elegant dish transforms ordinary butter into a centerpiece perfect for entertaining or enhancing any bread service.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Butter Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Herbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons crushed pistachios
- 2 tablespoons roasted red pepper, diced
- Fresh edible flowers (optional)
- Bread slices or crackers, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Butter Base: Let the unsalted butter sit at room temperature until softened but not melted. This will make spreading easier and create a smooth texture on the board.
- Spread the Butter: On a wooden cutting board or serving platter, spread the softened butter evenly, covering a large surface area to create a base layer. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to create swirls and peaks for an attractive presentation.
- Add Herbs and Salt: Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs and flaky sea salt evenly over the surface of the butter. These add a burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Top with Toppings: Scatter the crushed pistachios, diced roasted red pepper, and drizzle honey over the butter board to create a balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures. Optionally, add edible flowers to enhance the aesthetics.
- Serve with Bread: Place slices of fresh bread or crackers around the butter board for guests to scoop and enjoy the flavorful butter spreads directly.
Notes
- Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize toppings based on your preference; try olives, nuts, or dried fruits.
- Keep the butter board chilled if preparing ahead to maintain texture.
- Serve immediately after assembling to ensure optimal freshness and presentation.
- Butter boards can be a fun addition to brunches, appetizers, or any casual gathering.
Keywords: butter board, appetizer, herb butter, party food, easy recipe, no cook appetizer
