Description

This creamy basil pesto butter is a flavorful and versatile spread combining softened butter with aromatic basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Perfect for enhancing bread, pasta, or roasted vegetables, this easy-to-make butter adds a fresh, herby twist to your dishes. Optional lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness, making it an elegant and quick addition to your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra freshness)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Make the Pesto Butter: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter with the basil pesto. Use a spatula or spoon to mix until well incorporated, ensuring the flavors blend smoothly.
Add Flavorings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and lemon juice if using. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and consistent in texture.
Season to Taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to the butter mixture according to your preference, mixing well to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Serve or Store: Use the creamy basil pesto butter immediately as a spread on bread, a topping for pasta, or a drizzle over roasted vegetables to enhance their flavor.
Storage Instructions: For later use, transfer the butter to a small container with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for up to one week. Alternatively, freeze it for longer storage, up to three months, preserving its freshness.

Notes

The lemon juice is optional but adds a refreshing brightness to the butter.
Use unsalted butter to better control the saltiness of the final product.
This butter pairs wonderfully with toasted bread, grilled vegetables, or tossed into freshly cooked pasta.
Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Store in a sealed container to prevent the butter from absorbing other fridge odors.