Nasturtium Herb Butter

Nasturtium Herb Butter is an eye-catching and flavorful compound butter that combines the spicy-floral notes of nasturtium petals with fresh garden herbs and lemon zest. Vibrant in color and aroma, this artisanal butter is both a culinary and visual delight, ideal for enhancing grilled meats, vegetables, seafood, or bread. It’s a stunning way to elevate everyday meals with the beauty and flavor of edible flowers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This butter brings a sophisticated, garden-fresh twist to a kitchen staple. The peppery bite of nasturtium balances beautifully with aromatic herbs and citrusy lemon zest, making it a versatile flavor booster. It’s easy to prepare, can be stored for future use, and adds a gourmet touch to even the simplest dishes. Whether spread over warm bread or melting into roasted vegetables, it offers a unique and elegant finish.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup fresh nasturtium petals, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

directions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped nasturtium petals, chives, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir thoroughly until the herbs and petals are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
3. Place the mixture on a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
4. Shape the butter into a log or press into small molds.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
6. Once set, slice into coins or scoop as needed.
7. Serve softened over warm vegetables, grilled seafood, meats, or freshly baked bread.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 16 servings (1 tablespoon each)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Calories: Approximately 102 kcal per serving

Variations

• Citrus Twist: Replace lemon zest with orange or lime zest for a different aromatic profile.
• Heat Infusion: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or finely chopped chili for a spicy version.
• Garlic Lover’s Version: Stir in one minced garlic clove for added depth.
• Smoky Finish: Mix in a dash of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke.
• Cheese Accent: Add a tablespoon of finely grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.

storage/reheating

Store the butter log in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, wrapped tightly in parchment or plastic. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months and slice portions as needed. Allow frozen butter to soften slightly at room temperature before serving. Reheating is not necessary; the butter melts naturally over warm dishes.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added sea salt to avoid over-seasoning.

What do nasturtium petals taste like?

They have a peppery, slightly spicy flavor similar to watercress, which complements savory dishes beautifully.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are preferred for optimal flavor and color, but dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities if needed.

Is this butter safe to eat with raw nasturtiums?

Yes, as long as the flowers are grown organically and free from pesticides, they are safe and edible.

How should I serve this butter?

It’s ideal on grilled meats, vegetables, seafood, fresh bread, baked potatoes, or stirred into hot pasta.

Can I add other edible flowers to the butter?

Yes, borage, calendula, or chive blossoms can add color and flavor variation.

What kind of butter works best for this recipe?

Use high-quality, unsalted butter for the best taste and texture.

Can I use a food processor to mix the butter?

Yes, a food processor works well to quickly blend the ingredients, especially if the butter is very soft.

Will the color of the nasturtium petals hold up in the butter?

Yes, their vibrant hue typically holds up well when mixed and chilled properly.

How do I shape the butter for a decorative presentation?

Use silicone molds, pipe it into rosettes, or roll in parchment into a uniform log for easy slicing.

Conclusion

Nasturtium Herb Butter is an easy yet elegant way to incorporate garden-fresh flavor and edible beauty into your cooking. With its peppery floral notes and herbaceous brightness, this compound butter enhances any dish it touches. Whether spread, melted, or sliced, it’s a striking addition to the table that offers both flavor and flair. Perfect for entertaining or elevating everyday meals, it’s a celebration of seasonal simplicity and artisanal charm.

Nasturtium Herb Butter

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Nasturtium Herb Butter is a vibrant, garden-fresh compound butter made with edible flowers and herbs. This creamy, floral-spicy spread is perfect for finishing vegetables, seafood, or grilled meats, and brings gourmet flair to everyday meals.

• Author: Asma
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings (1 tbsp each)
• Category: Condiment
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: Gourmet
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup fresh nasturtium petals, chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1/2 tsp sea salt

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with chopped nasturtium petals, chives, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

2. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly distributed and the butter is colorful and aromatic.

3. Spoon the mixture onto parchment paper or plastic wrap. Roll into a log or press into silicone molds.

4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.

5. Slice into rounds or scoop as needed. Serve soft over roasted vegetables, grilled seafood, steaks, or crusty bread.

Notes

• For a more floral profile, add a pinch of edible flower petals like pansies or calendula.

• Can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 2 months.

• A beautiful addition to butter boards or brunch spreads.