What are the ingredients in herbed butter?

The most essential ingredients in herbed butter are, of course, butter and herbs. However, depending on the purpose for which it is made, herbed butter may include any number of herbs and other ingredients.

To make herbed butter, start with one or more sticks of unsalted butter, and let them soften to room temperature. Place the butter in a bowl, and mix in any ingredients that complement the meat or other dish you are preparing. Strong choices include sage, basil, tarragon and dill. Additionally, you may wish to include minced garlic, minced shallots or lemon zest. Finally, add salt and black pepper to round out the flavor of the herbed butter.