Save Elevate your bread basket with this Golden Herb Butter Toast, a simple yet elegant dish that combines the crunch of artisan bread with a vibrant, aromatic compound butter. Perfectly toasted and finished with flaky sea salt, it is an irresistible addition to any meal.
Save The magic happens when the garlic-infused herb butter melts into the warm, toasted bread, creating a rich and savory experience. Whether you choose sourdough or a classic baguette, each slice offers a delightful harmony of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 slices crusty artisan bread (such as sourdough or baguette)
- 100 g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- Flaky sea salt, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) or set a broiler to high.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with parsley, chives, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, black pepper, and fine sea salt until fully combined.
- Step 3
- Lightly toast the bread slices in the oven or under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, just until crisp and lightly golden.
- Step 4
- Spread a generous layer of compound herb butter onto each warm toast.
- Step 5
- Return the toasts to the oven or broiler for 1–2 minutes, just until the butter melts and the edges of the bread are golden.
- Step 6
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Ensure the butter is properly softened at room temperature before mixing to allow the herbs and garlic to incorporate evenly. If using a broiler, watch the bread closely to prevent burning, as it can go from golden to charred very quickly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the butter mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs such as dill, tarragon, or basil to customize the flavor profile to your liking.
Serviervorschläge
This herb butter toast pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine or a light vegetable soup. It also makes a fantastic base for extra toppings like sliced tomatoes or prosciutto.
Save Serve these golden, buttery slices while they are still warm to fully enjoy the aromatic herb blend. It is a simple preparation that never fails to impress.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make the herb butter ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the compound butter up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or freeze for up to a month. Let it soften slightly before spreading on toast.
- → What bread works best for this dish?
Crusty artisan breads like sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta are ideal. They provide a sturdy base that holds the butter well and toasts beautifully without becoming soggy.
- → Can I customize the herbs?
Absolutely. Experiment with dill, tarragon, basil, oregano, or rosemary based on your preference. Keep the total fresh herb quantity around 3-4 tablespoons for balanced flavor.
- → How do I prevent the butter from melting too much?
Toast the bread first, then spread the herb butter quickly while warm. Return to the oven for just 1-2 minutes for gentle melting rather than complete dissolution.
- → What can I serve this with?
Pairs beautifully with crisp white wines, light soups, salads, or cheese boards. It also works as an elegant side to grilled fish or roasted vegetables.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
The traditional version is vegetarian due to butter content. For a vegan alternative, use plant-based butter with the same herb mixture for comparable results.