Vegetable Butter Topping
A flavorful vegetable topping with buttery, cheesy, and herby notes, perfect for enhancing the taste of hot cooked vegetables and suitable for casual or elegant meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1-cup measure, combine the butter, parsley, chives, salt and pepper.
- Microwave on High for 1 to 1 1/4 minutes or until the butter melts.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese.
- Serve topping over hot cooked vegetables.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using unsalted butter and adding a squeeze of lemon juice. If you don't have fresh parsley, dried parsley can work in a pinch, though the flavor may not be as vibrant. You can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or basil. For a dairy-free option, substitute with plant-based butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable butter topping is excellent over steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. It also pairs beautifully with Hawaiian Sweet Bread(Also Known As Portuguese Sweet Bread) for a delightful contrast. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or with a bowl of Mix Fruit Salad for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover vegetable butter topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warm. This topping is perfect for fresh cooked vegetables or can be drizzled over baked potatoes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Butter Topping contains roughly 21 calories, with 2g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1016mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
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 different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like feta or cheddar for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture will vary, so choose one that complements the vegetables you're serving it with.
What vegetables work best with this butter topping?
This topping is versatile and goes well with a variety of vegetables, including steamed carrots, zucchini, and Brussels sprouts. You can also use it to enhance roasted vegetables for a delicious side dish.
Can I make this topping ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the topping a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it before serving to ensure the butter melts nicely and the flavors meld together.
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).