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There is nothing quite like a heaping platter of roasted vegetables, and tossing them with cowboy butter makes this dish truly special. The savory butter blend coats every veggie in bold flavor. I love this as a comforting side dish to just about any meal, especially on cooler nights when the kitchen smells rich with garlic and herbs.
I first made this for a backyard barbecue, and it was the first dish gone. Now my friends request it every time I host.
Ingredients
- Mixed vegetables such as carrots bell peppers zucchini broccoli: These bring color and texture Use the freshest vegetables for best flavor and cut evenly for even roasting
- Unsalted butter softened: This is the base for the cowboy butter Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing
- Garlic minced: Adds boldness and aroma Fresh is best for sharp flavor
- Fresh parsley finely chopped: Brings herbaceous freshness Choose bright green bunches
- Fresh chives finely chopped: Offers a mild onion note Snip from a firm bunch with no wilting
- Fresh thyme leaves: Delivers earthiness Pick fragrant sprigs
- Chili flakes: Adds gentle heat Opt for bright red flakes
- Smoked paprika: Adds rich smoky depth Select a Spanish variety if possible for intensity
- Salt: Essential for seasoning Use kosher or sea salt for best results
- Black pepper: Brings subtle heat and rounds out flavors Freshly cracked is best
- Lemon zest and lemon juice: Brightens everything up And pick a firm lemon for maximum zest
- Additional chopped herbs optional for garnish: Sprinkle on top just before serving to add color and freshness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup simple
- Make the Cowboy Butter:
- Combine softened butter minced garlic fresh parsley chives thyme chili flakes smoked paprika salt black pepper and lemon zest in a medium bowl Mix until completely blended and smooth
- Coat the Vegetables:
- Add your cut mixed vegetables to a large bowl Spoon the cowboy butter over and toss thoroughly Every piece should be coated for even flavor and browning
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Spread vegetables in a single layer on your prepared sheet Try not to crowd so they roast instead of steaming
- Roast to Perfection:
- Place in your oven and roast for twenty five to thirty minutes Stir halfway through to ensure all sides caramelize and get golden at the edges
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the tray from the oven Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and gently toss everything before transferring to a serving platter Add extra herbs on top if you like and serve warm
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My favorite part is how the smoked paprika mingles with roasted broccoli The first time my niece tasted this she declared vegetables are fun
Storage Tips
Allow leftovers to cool fully before transferring to a lidded container Store in the refrigerator for up to four days I find they are just as good reheated on a sheet pan or tossed into a skillet with a splash of water to crisp back up
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to mix up your veggie selection Use whatever is in season or lurking in your crisper Swap in cauliflower sweet potato mushrooms or baby potatoes with great success If you are out of fresh herbs dried will work but use about one third the amount
Serving Suggestions
These cowboy butter roasted vegetables are the perfect side for grilled meats like steak or roasted chicken For a vegetarian meal I pair them with a grain bowl or pile atop creamy polenta They even make a great filling for a wrap or sandwich
A Little History
Cowboy butter is inspired by classic steakhouse compound butters with Western flair The blend of fresh herbs zippy lemon and smoky spices brings a bit of ranch comfort to even simple veggies
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Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables work best for this dish?
Carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and broccoli provide a great balance of textures and flavors. Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you prefer.
- → How does the butter mixture enhance the flavor?
The butter blend, combined with garlic, herbs, and spices, coats the vegetables evenly, infusing them with robust smoky and herbaceous notes while promoting caramelization.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, vegetables can be prepped and tossed with the butter mixture in advance. Roasting just before serving ensures optimal texture and flavor.
- → What is the ideal roasting temperature and time?
Roast the vegetables at 425°F for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway to achieve uniform caramelization and tenderness.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of chili flakes according to taste. Reducing or omitting them softens the heat, while increasing adds a spicy kick.