My Mother'S Garlic Butter
A rich, garlicky butter infused with parsley and Parmesan, perfect for spreading on bread and baking into a flavorful appetizer or side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush the garlic into the margarine.
- Cook the garlic and margarine on low for 45 minutes to remove water and brown the garlic.
- Refrigerate until solidified.
- Add chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese to the garlic butter mixture.
- Spread onto 1-inch slices of French bread loaf.
- Wrap the bread in foil and seal well.
- Bake in an oven preheated to 350° to 375°F for 20 minutes.
- Unwrap the foil on top and roll down the sides of the foil.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense garlic flavor, let the crushed garlic sit in the margarine for about 30 minutes before cooking. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half of the margarine with unsalted butter. Fresh parsley can also be swapped with dried parsley, but use it sparingly as dried herbs are more potent. Remember to keep the cooking temperature low to prevent burning the garlic!
Serving Suggestions
This garlic butter is perfect for spreading on French bread, but it also pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a delightful twist, use it to enhance recipes like Cheese And Buttered Corn-On-The-Cob or drizzle it over pasta for an added flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover garlic butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. To reheat, simply scoop out the desired amount and microwave in short bursts until melted, or spread it on bread and warm it in the oven. This butter also freezes well; just portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Mother'S Garlic Butter contains roughly 239 calories, with 10g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Absolutely! Fresh garlic is a key ingredient in this recipe and provides a robust flavor. Just ensure you crush the garlic well to release its natural oils, enhancing the overall taste of your garlic butter.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version by substituting the salted margarine with a plant-based butter alternative. Just be mindful of the cheese; opt for a vegan Parmesan cheese to maintain the dish’s flavor profile without dairy.
How can I adjust the garlic flavor to my liking?
You can easily adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference. If you enjoy a milder taste, reduce the number of garlic pods, or if you love a strong garlic punch, feel free to add more! Just remember to balance it with the other ingredients.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).