Savoury Herb Butter
Savoury Herb Butter
The Simple Magic of Homemade Herb ButterThere’s something almost magical about watching a pat of butter melt over a warm slice of cornbread, soaking into every golden crumb. But this isn’t just any butter. This is Homestead Herb Butter—a savory, aromatic blend of soft cream butter and fresh garden herbs, made to elevate even the simplest bite.While it’s the perfect pairing for my Golden Hearth Skillet Cornbread, this herb butter is incredibly versatile. It works beautifully on biscuits, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or simply spread on a slice of warm sourdough.What I love most about this recipe is how deeply customizable it is. It feels old-fashioned and wholesome, like something your grandmother might have whipped up without even thinking—yet it delivers restaurant-level flavor with barely any effort.🌿 Why You'll Love This Herb ButterQuick & Easy: Just 5 minutes of prep, and you're done.Flavorful & Balanced: A blend of parsley, thyme, and chives adds earthy brightness.Elevates Anything: Great on cornbread, grilled corn, steak, or roasted potatoes.Keeps Well: Make a batch, store it in the fridge or freezer, and use it all week.
Ingredients
- ½ cup Unsalted butter, softened 1 stick
- 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Fresh thyme leaves chopped
- 1 teaspoon Fresh chives or green onions finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon Garlic powder or 1 small clove fresh garlic, grated
- ¼ teaspoon Kosher salt adjust to taste
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon lemon zest adds brightness, great with roasted veggies or fish
Instructions
Soften the Butter
- Let your butter sit at room temperature until it’s soft enough to press a finger into easily. This ensures smooth mixing and creamy texture.
Chop the Herbs
- Finely chop the fresh herbs so they blend well into the butter without clumping.
Mix It All Together
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the herbs, garlic powder (or fresh garlic), salt, and optional lemon zest. Use a fork or spatula to mash everything together until fully incorporated.
Shape & Store
- For a rustic approach: Simply spoon the butter into a small serving bowl.
- For something prettier: Scoop the butter onto a sheet of parchment paper, form into a log, roll tightly, and twist the ends. Chill for 30–60 minutes, then slice into rounds.
Serve
- Let it sit at room temp for a few minutes before serving, so it’s soft and spreadable.
Notes
Tips & Tricks
- Use Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs don’t deliver the same fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Salted Butter? If using salted butter, reduce or skip the added salt.
- Add Heat: For a spicy twist, mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper or a few drops of hot sauce.
- Double the Recipe: It stores beautifully—freeze some for later use.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container or parchment-wrapped log for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Slice off what you need and thaw at room temp.
- Spread over warm biscuits or English muffins
- Melt over grilled or roasted vegetables
- Stir into hot rice or mashed potatoes
- Slather on corn on the cob
- Top grilled chicken, steak, or fish
Nutrition
Calories: 136kcalCarbohydrates: 0.1gProtein: 0.2gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 41mgSodium: 2mgPotassium: 8mgFiber: 0.02gSugar: 0.02gVitamin A: 529IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 0.05mg
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Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette
A Simple, Flavorful Dressing for Fruity & Savory SaladsThis homemade honey balsamic vinaigrette is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory—and it comes together in just minutes with pantry staples. Whether you're tossing it with a fruit-forward salad like our Grilled Chicken & Blueberry Harvest Salad or drizzling it over roasted vegetables, this dressing brings bold, fresh flavor to every bite. Serve it with our Grilled Chicken & Blueberry Harvest Salad is a refreshing, nutrient-rich recipe that captures the best of seasonal eating in one colourful bowl. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it features a flavorful mix of grilled chicken, fresh blueberries, green apple slices, and a hearty bed of baby arugula and spinach—balanced beautifully with the creamy bite of blue cheese crumbles and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts and sunflower seeds. Thinly sliced red onion adds just the right amount of sharpness, tying the whole dish together with complex flavour and texture.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for a vegan version
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice fresh is best
- Salt & freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Slowly pour in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.
- Use immediately or refrigerate in a sealed container.
Notes
Tips & Tricks:
- Emulsify like a pro: For a smooth texture, whisk vigorously or shake in a jar with a tight-fitting lid.
- Add complexity: A pinch of garlic powder or a teaspoon of finely minced shallot adds a savory twist.
- Creamy version: Blend in 1 tsp Greek yogurt or mayo for a creamier, slightly thicker dressing.
- Make it zesty: Swap lemon juice for orange juice for a brighter citrus note.
- Want more depth? A splash of apple cider vinegar can add another layer of flavor.
- Refrigeration: Store the dressing in an airtight jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Separation is natural: Shake well before each use to re-emulsify the oil and vinegar.
- Freezing? Not recommended—oil and vinegar dressings don’t freeze well and can separate upon thawing.
Nutrition
Calories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 0.3gFat: 42gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 31gSodium: 60mgPotassium: 32mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 0.5mg
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Cinnamon Vanilla Whipped Honey Butter
Cinnamon Vanilla Whipped Honey Butter
The Sweet Spread You Didn’t Know You NeededThere’s something magical about a small batch of whipped honey butter. It’s that luxurious upgrade that turns everyday bread into a bakery-level treat. But this version? It’s a little more special. I’ve added a hint of warm cinnamon to bring in that cozy, comforting flavor that reminds me of fresh cinnamon rolls or holiday breakfasts.Whether you’re spreading it on hot cornbread, drizzling it over pancakes, or sneaking a spoonful straight from the jar (no judgment here), this Cinnamon Vanilla Whipped Honey Butter brings just the right amount of sweetness and spice.Why You’ll Love ItQuick & Easy: Five ingredients and five minutes. That’s it.Customizable: Like it sweeter? Add more honey. Want it spicier? Add extra cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg.Crowd Favorite: This spread turns any brunch board, bread basket, or breakfast table into something memorable.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted butter (227g) softened
- ⅓–½ cup Honey (113g) adjust based on sweetness preference
- 1 tablespoon Vanilla paste or pure vanilla extract (13g)
- ½ teaspoon Fine sea salt (3g) or table salt
- ¼ teaspoon Ground cinnamon or to taste
Instructions
Whip the Butter
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the softened butter using an electric mixer on medium-high speed until light, fluffy, and pale—about 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Add the Flavour
- Add honey, vanilla, salt, and ground cinnamon to the bowl. Continue to whip for another 1 to 2 minutes until everything is well combined and airy.
Adjust to Taste
- Taste your whipped honey butter. Add more honey for extra sweetness, a pinch more salt for contrast, or more cinnamon for a warmer flavor.
Store & Serve
- Transfer the whipped butter to a glass jar, butter crock, or airtight container. Serve at room temperature or chilled, depending on your preference.
Notes
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. The butter will firm up in the fridge but can be softened on the counter for easier spreading.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Use silicone molds or freezer-safe containers and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
- Room Temp (short-term): Safe for 1-2 days in a cool kitchen. Store in a butter bell or covered dish, away from sunlight or heat.
- Use High-Quality Butter: European-style butters (like Kerrygold) have higher fat content and whip up beautifully.
- For Extra Creaminess: Add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream while whipping for an even silkier texture.
- Flavor Boost: Use vanilla bean paste instead of extract for specks of real vanilla and deeper flavor.
- Perfect Pairings: Spread it on warm biscuits, cornbread, pancakes, waffles, or even roasted sweet potatoes!
- Slather it on hot, fluffy biscuits 🧁
- Melt it over roasted sweet potatoes 🍠
- Stir into oatmeal or grits for a cozy breakfast bowl 🥣
- Dollop it on pancakes or waffles for extra indulgence 🧇
- Pair it with your Tangy Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread for a sweet-spicy combo that wows 🌶️🧈
Nutrition
Calories: 2032kcalCarbohydrates: 103gProtein: 2gFat: 184gSaturated Fat: 117gPolyunsaturated Fat: 7gMonounsaturated Fat: 48gTrans Fat: 7gCholesterol: 488mgSodium: 1192mgPotassium: 116mgFiber: 1gSugar: 102gVitamin A: 5674IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 67mgIron: 1mg
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Cilantro Lime & AvocadoDressing
Cilantro Lime & AvocadoDressing
This creamy avocado cilantro dressing is a fresh, vibrant, and healthy way to elevate your salads, tacos, and grain bowls. Made with ripe avocado, fresh cilantro, zesty lime juice, and a touch of olive oil, it’s naturally creamy, dairy-free, and packed with flavor. Whether you use it as a dressing, dip, or spread, this versatile recipe is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 Avocado Ripe
- 1/4 cup fresh Cilantro leaves
- 1 tablespoon Lime juice fresh is best!
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Water or more for desired consistency
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients for easy blending.
- Blend Until Smooth: In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, fresh cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency: Add more water if needed to reach your desired thickness.
- Season to Taste: Stir in salt and pepper, adjusting as needed for flavor.
- Store & Serve: Transfer the dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Notes
Serving Tips & Variations
- Use as a Dip: Serve alongside fresh veggies, tortilla chips, or grilled meats.
- Drizzle Over Tacos: This dressing pairs beautifully with fish tacos, shrimp, or grilled chicken.
- Salad Dressing Alternative: Thin it out with more water or olive oil to make it the perfect salad topper.
- Enhance the Flavour: Add a garlic clove or a pinch of cumin for extra depth.
Nutrition
Calories: 113kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 4mgPotassium: 253mgFiber: 3gSugar: 0.4gVitamin A: 143IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 7mgIron: 0.3mg
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Homemade Avocado Oil & Balsamic Honey Salad Dressing
Homemade Avocado Oil & Balsamic Honey Salad Dressing
This homemade balsamic honey lime dressing is the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and savory flavors. Made with simple ingredients like avocado oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh lime juice, and honey, it’s a light yet flavorful dressing that can elevate any salad. The hint of garlic adds depth, while the natural sweetness of honey balances the acidity, creating a well-rounded dressing that pairs beautifully with fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or even grilled proteins.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp Avocado oil
- 1 Tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 Lime The Juice of the Lime
- 1 Tbsp Honey
- 1 Clove Garlic Minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to Taste
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Ensure all the ingredients are ready for easy mixing.
- Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl or glass jar with a lid, combine avocado oil, balsamic vinegar, fresh lime juice, honey, and minced garlic.
- Whisk or Shake: Whisk the mixture vigorously until well emulsified, or secure the lid on the jar and shake until fully blended.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavours.
- Chill or Serve: For the best flavour, refrigerate the dressing for 10-15 minutes before serving, or use immediately.
Notes
Serving Tips & Variations
- Pairing Ideas: Drizzle over a fresh green salad with mixed greens, nuts, and feta cheese. It also works well as a marinade for grilled chicken or seafood.
- Substitutions: Swap avocado oil for olive oil or grapeseed oil if preferred. Maple syrup can be used instead of honey for a vegan option.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using, as separation is natural.
Nutrition
Calories: 85kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 0.1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 1mgPotassium: 19mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 4IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.1mg
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Sweet & Creamy Poppyseed Dressing
Sweet & Creamy Poppyseed Dressing
This creamy poppyseed dressing is a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly savory flavors. Made with a base of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), and apple cider vinegar, it's a versatile dressing that pairs beautifully with fresh salads, fruit bowls, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables. The poppyseeds add a delightful crunch, while the lemon juice enhances the overall brightness of the dressing.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup for a vegan option
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a milder flavor
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version
- 1 tablespoon poppyseeds
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice adds a fresh tang to balance the sweetness
- Pinch of salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
Add the Cream:
- Slowly add the heavy cream (or coconut milk), and whisk until the dressing is creamy and well-blended.
Stir in the Poppyseeds:
- Mix in the poppyseeds, and give the dressing a taste. Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrupif desired, or add a little more vinegar if you prefer more tang.
Season to Taste:
- Add a pinch of salt and a few cracks of black pepper to bring out the flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Chill (Optional):
- If you have time, chill the dressing for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This step is optional but helps the flavors to develop further.
Notes
Why This Sweet & Creamy Poppyseed Dressing Works:
Creamy Texture: The base of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt makes the dressing velvety smooth, while the heavy cream (or coconut milk) adds richness.
Sweet & Tangy: The combination of honey (or maple syrup) and apple cider vinegar creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, which is the ideal complement to the fresh strawberries and creamy blue cheese in your salad.
Poppyseed Crunch: The poppyseeds add a lovely little crunch and a hint of nuttiness, elevating the creamy texture and sweetness of the dressing.
Tips:
For a lighter version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and coconut milk instead of heavy cream. For extra sweetness: Add an additional teaspoon of honey or maple syrup. For more tang: Increase the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice slightly. For best flavor: Let the dressing chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Shake or stir before using.Nutrition
Calories: 768kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 4gFat: 67gSaturated Fat: 21gPolyunsaturated Fat: 29gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 91mgSodium: 377mgPotassium: 192mgFiber: 2gSugar: 37gVitamin A: 912IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 179mgIron: 1mg
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Zesty Herb Fusion Dressing
Zesty Herb Fusion Dressing
Your Ultimate Guide to Zesty Herb Fusion DressingSalad dressings are the unsung heroes of the culinary world. A well-crafted dressing can elevate a simple salad into a gourmet experience. Today, I'm excited to introduce you to my unique take on a classic—a dressing that captures the vibrant flavors of herbs, citrus, and a hint of sweetness. Say hello to the Zesty Herb Fusion Dressing!The Inspiration Behind the RecipeMost people don’t realize how easy it is to whip up a delicious homemade salad dressing. By using fresh ingredients and a dash of creativity, you can create a dressing that's made specifically for your taste buds. This Zesty Herb Fusion Dressing is inspired by the classic Italian flavors yet incorporates fresh elements that make it a refreshing addition to your salads. Why Make Your Own Dressing?1. Flavour Control: When you make your own dressing, you control the flavours. Tweak the acidity, sweetness, or herbiness based on your preferences!2. Fresh Ingredients: Homemade dressings can use fresh herbs and spices, ensuring vibrant flavours and health benefits.3. No Preservatives: Store-bought dressings often contain preservatives and additives. By making your own, you’ll create a cleaner, healthier option.4. Customisation: You can adapt your dressing for various dishes, not just salads! Use it as a marinades, dips, or drizzled over grilled veggies.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup high-quality olive oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar instead of distilled white vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice for extra zing
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard for creaminess and flavor
- 1 packet of homemade Italian-style spice blend combine dried basil, oregano, and thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon honey instead of granulated sugar, for natural sweetness
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt for a creamy texture
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Stir in your homemade Italian-style spice blend, honey, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Greek yogurt.
- Vigorously mix the dressing until smooth and creamy, ensuring the yogurt is incorporated.
- Chill the dressing in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.!
Notes
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Dressing
- Quality Ingredients Matter
- Whisk Vigorously
- Customize to Your Taste
- Use Fresh Herbs
- Store Properly
- 1. Salad Perfection
- Grilled Veggies
- Sandwich Spread
- Pasta Salad
Nutrition
Calories: 57kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.2gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 1337mgPotassium: 161mgFiber: 1gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 24mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 0.5mg
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