Save Elevate your next gathering with this luxurious Garlic & Herb Crostini Spread. This creamy, whipped butter spread is infused with the mellow sweetness of roasted garlic and the brightness of fresh garden herbs, making it the ultimate accompaniment to crisp crostini or warm baguette slices.
Save This vegetarian European-style appetizer is remarkably easy to prepare yet delivers sophisticated flavors. With a preparation time of only 15 minutes and a total time of 55 minutes, you can create a high-quality spread that feels like it came from a professional kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 whole garlic bulb
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil (or tarragon)
- ½ tsp fine sea salt (plus more to taste)
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 baguette or crostini, sliced and toasted (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Step 2
- Slice the top off the garlic bulb to expose the cloves. Drizzle with olive oil and wrap in foil. Roast for 35–40 minutes, until soft and golden. Let cool slightly.
- Step 3
- Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves from the skins into a mixing bowl. Mash into a paste.
- Step 4
- Add the softened butter to the bowl. Whip with a hand mixer or wooden spoon until light and fluffy.
- Step 5
- Stir in the chopped herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Step 6
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Step 7
- Transfer the spread to a serving bowl or ramekin.
- Step 8
- Serve with toasted crostini or baguette slices.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before whipping to achieve a light and fluffy consistency. When roasting the garlic, ensure the bulb is wrapped tightly in foil to lock in the moisture and heat, resulting in perfectly softened cloves that mash easily into a smooth paste.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a zesty twist, you can add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the mixture. You can also substitute the fresh herbs for your favorites, such as dill or thyme. To accommodate dietary needs, serve with gluten-free bread, as the butter itself is naturally gluten-free.
Serviervorschläge
While ideal for toasted crostini or baguette slices, this spread is also delicious as a topping for steamed vegetables or grilled meats. This recipe yields approximately 1 cup, serving 6 to 8 people, making it a fantastic addition to any appetizer platter.
Save Whether you are hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, this Garlic & Herb Crostini Spread offers a rich, flavorful experience that is simple to create. Enjoy the aromatic blend of roasted garlic and fresh herbs in every bite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do you roast garlic for the spread?
Slice the top off a garlic bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast at 400°F for 35–40 minutes until soft and golden.
- → Can I use other herbs besides parsley, chives, and basil?
Yes, dill or thyme can be substituted to vary the flavor profile of the spread.
- → How should I store leftover spread?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let it come to room temperature before serving again.
- → What is the best type of bread to serve with this spread?
Toasted crostini or warm baguette slices complement the creamy texture and flavors perfectly.
- → Is it possible to make the spread dairy-free?
This version uses butter, but a plant-based margarine could be used as a substitute for a dairy-free option.