Rosemary & Garlic Butter

Soft butter blended with fragrant rosemary and garlic makes one of the simplest useful gifts from the kitchen. Spoon it into a small jar, wrap it carefully and give it with bread, potatoes or a note suggesting all the lovely ways it can be used.

Not every homemade gift needs sugar, ribbon and a biscuit tin. Sometimes a small jar of something savoury, useful and delicious is exactly the thing.

Makes About 250g

Time 15 minutes

Difficulty Very easy

Best for Fresh savoury gifting

Ingredients

For the Butter

250g unsalted butter, softened
2 small garlic cloves, finely grated or crushed
1½ tbsp fresh rosemary, very finely chopped
½ tsp fine sea salt
A few twists of black pepper

Optional Extras

½ tsp lemon zest
A little chopped parsley or thyme
A pinch of chilli flakes
A small spoonful of grated Parmesan for a richer version
Extra rosemary sprigs for presentation

Method

Soften the butter. Leave the butter at room temperature until soft enough to mix easily. It should be spreadable but not melted.
Prepare the flavourings. Chop the rosemary very finely and crush or grate the garlic. Large pieces of rosemary can feel woody, so smaller is better here.
Mix everything together. Place the softened butter in a bowl and add the rosemary, garlic, salt and pepper. Add any optional flavourings you are using.
Beat until evenly combined. Use a wooden spoon or fork to mix thoroughly so the herbs and garlic are distributed throughout the butter.
Taste and adjust. Add a little more rosemary, pepper or salt if needed. Remember that the flavours will strengthen slightly as the butter rests.
Shape or jar. Spoon into a clean jar or ramekin, or roll into a log using baking parchment. Chill until firm.

Let the flavours settle

If you have time, make the butter a few hours before serving. Resting in the fridge gives the rosemary and garlic time to flavour the butter more evenly.

Ways to Use It

Warm Bread

Spread onto crusty bread, rolls or toast while still warm enough for the butter to soften into all the little gaps.

Roast Potatoes

Melt a little over freshly roasted or baked potatoes for an easy herby finish.

Autumn Vegetables

Add a knob to carrots, squash, mushrooms, green beans or other cooked seasonal vegetables just before serving.

Simple Suppers

Melt into cooked pasta, rice or grains for a quick savoury boost, or use a little to finish a pan of mushrooms.

Make It a Gift

Spoon the butter into a small clean jar, add a simple label and keep it chilled until you are ready to give it. Pair it with a loaf of good bread, a small wooden butter knife or a handwritten serving card. Because this is a fresh refrigerated gift, make sure the recipient knows to keep it cold and use it promptly.

Storage

Keep refrigerated in a covered container and use within about five days. It can also be frozen for longer storage. Shape the butter into a log, wrap well and slice off small pieces as needed.

Kitchen Notes

Keep the butter refrigerated and do not leave it at room temperature for long periods. Use clean utensils and containers, particularly when making it as a gift. If using additional ingredients such as cheese, make sure any allergens are clearly listed on the label.