Epicurean Herb Butter - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 teaspoon parsley, finely chopped
2 teaspoons basil, finely chopped
2 teaspoons chives, finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons oregano, finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons rosemary, finely chopped
1 1/2 teaspoons tarragon or 1 1/2 teaspoons thyme, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 cup butter, at room temperature (not margarine)

Preparation

Place all the herbs, garlic, pepper, and butter in a small mixing bowl and beat with a wooden spoon until slightly fluffy. (or, you can do the mixing with a mixer or food processor).
Place a 12\" square piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper on your work surface and mound the flavored butter in the center.
Roll herb butter into cylinder shape within plastic, twisting the ends to compress the butter.
Chill the butter in the refrigerator or freeze until firm.
USE IN VEGETABLES: A pat of this butter in steamed vegetables really perks up the flavor! Try adding to corn, rice, beans... let your imagination run wild!
USE ON GRILLED MEATS: Add pats of herb butter on top of just-off-the-grill steaks. Let steaks \"rest\" for 5 minutes before serving.
USE TO MAKE GARLIC BREAD: Spread softened herb butter onto 1\" slices of Italian bread. Shake on some parmesan cheese, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and broil until golden brown.