Lemon Basil Compound Butter - A versatile butter featuring fresh basil and vibrant lemon zest.
The other night I was obnoxiously texting photos of my dinner making to my brother. The texting started off as a brag about how I made the most delicious margarita and then I moved on to the massive rib-eye steaks and grilled hasselback potatoes. Finally, I texted a picture of the Lemon Basil Compound Butter. I had used the butter on both the steak and the potatoes.Â
I was surprised he responded to the compound butter text by saying "I always want to try to make compound butters but it seems like too much work". Uh, what? Compound butters are crazy easy!
He was thinking it took too long in the fridge to set up and I replied "It firms up quick". I got back a typical reply of "that's what she said".Â
Yes, that's my brother, folks. He can turn any comment into some sort of joke. I'll admit, looking back, I set myself right up for that one. And don't tell him but I laughed.....out loud.
Anyway, after finishing up our text convo, I realized that just because I know how easy compound butters are, doesn't mean everyone does. So, I obviously wanted to share this one with you right away! I make a lot of these butters, so now as I come up with flavorful combinations, I'll be sure to keep you guys in the loop about it.
So far I have used this Lemon Basil Compound Butter on steak, potatoes and crackers.  I'm thinking it would be great stirred into green beans or peas, or really any vegetable I can think of.
The Lemon Basil Compound Butter was used in both of these recipes (show below) too. Stay tuned, they're coming soon! For now, you will have to just drool over the photos.
Printable Recipe Card
Lemon Basil Compound Butter
Ingredients
- 1 stick butter 8T, salted - room temperature
- 1 T grated shallot or finely diced
- Zest of 1 whole lemon
- 1.5 T chopped basil fresh
Instructions
- Place room temperature/softened butter (not melted) in a bowl with all other ingredients. Using a fork, spatula or pastry blender, mix ingredients into butter.
- Scoop butter mixture onto a large sheet of plastic wrap. Roll to create a cylinder shape out of the butter. Be sure to twist up the ends. Refrigerate until firm.
- Use within 2 weeks.
[amazon-related-products keywords="mixing bowl"]
[amazon-related-products keywords="hand mixer"]
Amanda @ The Kitcheneer says
Compound butter is the BEST! I love having some on hand in the fridge! I'll definitely have to try this lemon basil version! Yum!
Patty Haxton Anderson says
My mother did compound butters for steak when we were kids - but she never made a log and let it set. She would just use the softened butter with herbs. I love this version and I loved the interaction you had with your brother.
foodyschmoody says
Thanks Patty!
Debra C. says
Love seeing this - compound butter is so easy but I always forget about it. You and your bro, haha! Love that you're still having fun together, even long distance!
foodyschmoody says
I was wondering how many people would read that comment from him. Glad it could make someone else laugh too!
Angela says
LOVE flavored butters and this one is certainly perfect for summer!!! Sounds perfect for that steak! Maybe on grilled corn too... oh YUM!!!
Renee - Kudos Kitchen says
Compound butter is such an amazing thing to keep on hand. I love your flavor combination!
foodyschmoody says
Thanks Renee!
Lauren Kelly Nutrition says
I LOVE the flavors in this!
foodyschmoody says
Thanks, I'm on a bit of a lemon and basil kick lately!
Stephanie says
This sounds so yummy. I would put it on everything!
Isabelle @ Crumb says
Compound butters are one of my favourite tricks when I want to dress up a simple dish... so easy to make, but they sound all fancy and stuff. 🙂 I've never tried using one on hasselback potatoes, though. That is pure genius!
Brenda@ Sugar-Free Mom says
Love Love Love this! I would be finding any and all things to spread this on!
foodyschmoody says
That's where I'm at now. I just keep looking around for things that "NEED" butter!
Kimberly @ The Daring Gourmet says
This sounds terrific and that steak looks SO good!
Angie | Big Bear's Wife says
Compound butters are crazy easy, aren't they! Also, they're perfect for everything!! I love making them at home!
Heather | All Roads Lead to the Kitchen says
Compound butter on a grilled steak is one of the best things EVER! This is totally my kind of meal.
Kelly @ Nosh and Nourish says
LOL... I laughed out loud too 🙂 This butter looks amazing... and I want to have it. ASAP.
Laurie says
I made this last night with a bit of lemon juice and zest. I had to omit the shallots or my husband won't touch it. We put it on corn on the cob. Delicious as well! Tonight it will be on our rib eye!