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Herb-Lemon Zest Butter

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This aromatic lemon and herb butter is a versatile vegetarian staple that instantly elevates simple home cooking. By blending fragrant flat-leaf parsley, chervil, tarragon, and chives with bright lemon zest, you create a complex flavour profile that works beautifully across various dishes. The zest provides a refreshing citrus lift that cuts through the richness of the butter, making it a sophisticated addition to your culinary repertoire.

Keep a roll of this flavoured butter in your fridge or freezer to add a professional finish to midweek meals. It is particularly delicious melted over steamed asparagus, stirred into freshly boiled new potatoes, or served atop a grilled steak or piece of white fish. Prepared in just minutes, it is an effortless way to preserve the vibrant taste of fresh garden herbs for weeks to come.

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Ingredients for Herb-Lemon Zest Butter

  • 1/4 cup mixed herbs, such as flat-leaf parlsey, chervil, tarragon, and chives, chopped

  • 1 stick (110g ) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

How to make Herb-Lemon Zest Butter

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Put herbs on a work surface. Add butter and lemon zest. Finely chop together until well combined. Season with salt.

Transfer to a sheet of parchment paper, placing on edge closest to you. Fold paper over and roll into a cylinder, twisting the ends; wrap airtight in foil. Chill until solid.

DO AHEAD: Butter will keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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