Ingredients:
- 1 head of garlic (about 12-15 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, extra virgin
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup (2 sticks, 227g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- Roasted garlic cloves (from above)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of a kick)
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the garlic head. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and wrap tightly in foil. Bake for 1 hour, or until cloves are soft and easily pierced with a fork. Let cool completely.
- Once cooled, squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, roasted garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix all ingredients until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Place the garlic butter onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape into a log. Wrap tightly and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.