Fresh Ideas for Feb. 9, 2012
Make it better with butter
Some of the easiest ways to impress dinner guests can be found in the infusion of everyday ingredients with something special. This process may be as simple as adding Cajun spices to a pasta sauce, infusing olive oil with spicy peppers or sweet basil, or just taking the time to squeeze a little bit of lemon into your glass of water.
And, since everything tastes better with just a little bit of butter, what better way to create exceptional flavors for every day experiences than a slice of toast with butter rich in herbes de Provence?
Served on bread, vegetables, or even a hearty steak with a dollop or two, herb butter reminds us of just how versatile this additive can be. But, the best part perhaps lies in the art of making it. In less than five minutes, room temperature butter can be mixed with freshly chopped garden herbs suggesting one of the easiest (and most rewarding) ways to bring nature straight to your table.
Prepare your own herb butter with the ratio suggested in the recipe or improvise new alternatives such as lavender, mint or dill.
Simple additions of your favorite flavors will make an already incredible ingredient better with something a little bit special.