Herbed Citrus Compound Butter

Recipe by: Lene Whitfield

8 ingredients•Prep: 10 mins

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February 1, 2026

Compound butter is simply softened butter blended with herbs, aromatics, and seasonings — an easy way to add richness and layered flavor to meats, vegetables, and bread.

This herbed citrus compound butter is one of those simple kitchen staples that quietly elevates everything it touches. Packed with fresh herbs, bright lemon zest, and a hint of heat, it’s equally at home melting over a perfectly cooked steak or spread generously on a butter board with warm bread for sharing.

Ingredients (8)

Instructions

Place the garlic (1 clove) clove on a cutting board, sprinkle with the salt (¼ tsp), and mash together using the flat side of a knife until a smooth paste forms.
In a small bowl, add the softened butter (1 stick), garlic paste, lemon zest (½ tsp), cilantro (¼ bunch), parsley (¼ bunch), thyme (1 Tbsp), and crushed red pepper flakes (¼ tsp).
Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the butter is evenly speckled with herbs.
To store or slice later, transfer the butter to parchment paper or plastic wrap, roll into a log, twist the ends, and refrigerate until firm.To use immediately, spread onto a butter board or dollop over hot steak, vegetables, or bread.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.