Homemade Bertolli beurre à huile d'olive Recipe: A Healthier Twist On A Classic French Butter Spread

Category: Spread

Introduction

Bertolli's beurre à huile d'olive is a beloved spread that combines the richness of butter with the elegance of olive oil, often infused with herbs for added flavor. Originating from the culinary traditions of France, this spread has gained popularity worldwide for its versatility in both cooking and as a condiment. Many fans of this product love it for its creamy texture and subtle herbal notes, which elevate dishes from simple toasts to gourmet meals. However, store-bought versions can sometimes contain preservatives and higher sodium content, prompting many to seek a homemade alternative that is not only healthier but also customizable to personal taste preferences.

Making this spread at home offers several advantages. It allows for the use of fresher, higher-quality ingredients, reducing the need for preservatives. Additionally, it can be tailored to suit various dietary needs and flavor profiles, making it a cost-effective and nutritious choice.

I remember the first time I tried Bertolli's beurre à huile d'olive; it was during a visit to a quaint French bistro. The way it melted effortlessly over a warm baguette, releasing a fragrant aroma of herbs, was nothing short of magical. Intrigued, I decided to recreate it at home, experimenting with different herbs and oils until I found the perfect balance. Now, I'm excited to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy a healthier and customizable version of this delightful spread.

Why Make It at Home?

• Healthier Ingredients: Control the amount of sodium and use fresh herbs for better flavor and nutrition.
• Customizable: Adjust the herbs and seasonings to your liking or dietary needs.
• Cost-Effective: Making it at home can be more economical than buying pre-made products.
• Freshness: Homemade spreads have no preservatives and can be made in small batches for optimal freshness.

Personal Anecdote

During a trip to Provence, I fell in love with the rich flavors of local butters infused with herbs. Determined to bring that taste home, I began experimenting, blending butter with olive oil and various herbs. After several trials, I perfected a recipe that captures the essence of the French countryside, with the added benefit of using healthier ingredients.

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:0 minutes
• **Total Time:10 minutes
• **Yield:1 cup (8 oz)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp (30g) fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp (15g) fresh chives or garlic, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/2 tsp (2g) sea salt
• 1/4 tsp (1g) freshly ground black pepper

Optional Additions:

• 1/4 tsp (1g) paprika
• 1/4 tsp (1g) dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, or dill)

Instructions

• Soften Butter: Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, chives or garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
• Combine: Gradually mix the oil mixture into the softened butter until smooth.
• Add Optional Herbs: Stir in paprika or dried herbs if using.
• Shape: Lay plastic wrap or parchment paper flat. Spoon the mixture onto one end, shape into a log, and roll tightly. Twist ends to seal.
• Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Variations

• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Lemon Zest: Incorporate some grated lemon zest for a citrus note.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter with a vegan spread.

Pro Tips

• Quality Matters: Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
• Texture Tip: Avoid over-mixing to keep a light texture.
• Wrap Well: Use plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent air exposure and spoilage.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use different oils? Yes, try avocado oil for a buttery flavor.
• How long does it last? Up to 1 week in the fridge, 3 months frozen.
• Can I add other ingredients? Yes, cheese, spices, or honey work well.
• Can it be used in cooking? Excellent for sautéing or as a finishing butter.
• Too soft or hard? Let it sit at room temperature if too hard, or chill if too soft.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast: Spread on toast or muffins.
• Cooking: Use in sautéing vegetables or as a finishing touch for meats.
• Dipping: Serve with crusty bread or as a dip for vegetables.

Conclusion

This homemade beurre à huile d'olive offers a healthier, customizable alternative to store-bought versions. With fresh ingredients and minimal sodium, it's a delightful addition to any meal. Share your creations and enjoy the versatility of this French classic!