Zesty Butter Sticks
Zesty Butter Sticks are flavorful bread wedges topped with seasoned butter, perfect as an appetizer or side for gatherings, offering a crispy, buttery, herb-infused bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Cut the bread in half lengthwise.
- Then cut each piece lengthwise to make 3 wedges, resulting in 6 wedges.
- In a small bowl, combine softened butter, chervil, basil leaves, garlic powder, and onion powder; blend well.
- Spread the seasoned butter on the cut surfaces of each bread wedge.
- Bake on an ungreased 15 x 10-inch baking sheet near the center of the oven for 7 to 9 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting fresh herbs like parsley or oregano if chervil and basil aren't available. You can also experiment with flavored butters, such as garlic herb or sun-dried tomato. Keep an eye on the bread while baking to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary. This recipe is a great accompaniment to dishes like Pineapple Bread Stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
These Zesty Butter Sticks make an excellent appetizer or side dish, perfect for pairing with salads, soups, or pasta dishes. They can also be served alongside a cheese platter for a delightful contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a refreshing salad or alongside dishes from American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Zesty Butter Sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, place the wedges in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes or until warmed through, allowing them to regain some crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zesty Butter Sticks contains roughly 38 calories, with 2g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in this recipe. However, keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly. Opt for a stick margarine for better spreading consistency, and ensure it's softened for easy mixing with herbs and seasonings.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make Zesty Butter Sticks dairy-free, substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as the seasonings, are also free from dairy products to maintain the dish's integrity.
Can I prepare the seasoned butter in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the seasoned butter up to 2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to use, allow it to soften at room temperature before spreading it on the bread wedges for easy application.
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).