Description

This Radish Herb Butter Terrine is an elegant and flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining or elevating your everyday snacks. Layers of fresh chives, dill, and thinly sliced radishes are beautifully stacked with creamy unsalted butter infused with olive oil and lemon zest. Chilled until set, it pairs wonderfully with crackers and toasted baguette slices drizzled with honey, offering a delightful balance of freshness, richness, and subtle sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale

Herbs

10½ tbsp fresh chives, chopped (about 1½ tbsp per layer)
3½ tbsp fresh dill, chopped (about ½ tbsp per layer)

Butter Mixture

8 oz unsalted butter (such as Kerrygold), softened
3 tbsp olive oil
Zest of 1 lemon

Vegetables

8–9 radishes, thinly sliced

Seasonings and Serving

Flaky salt (a pinch per layer + more for serving)
Honey, for serving
Crackers of choice, for serving
Baguette, sliced and toasted in olive oil, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the herbs: Wash and finely chop the fresh chives and dill, setting them aside separately to use in the layering process.
Slice and dry radishes: Using a mandoline or a sharp knife, shave the radishes very thinly. Place the slices on paper towels and pat them extremely dry to prevent excess moisture in the butter terrine.
Soften and mix butter: Cube the unsalted butter and microwave it for about 25 seconds, checking and stirring every 5 seconds to ensure it softens evenly without melting. Whisk in the olive oil and lemon zest until well combined.
Layer the terrine: In a mini loaf mold, start by spreading a layer of the softened butter mixture. Sprinkle approximately 1½ tbsp chopped chives, ½ tbsp chopped dill, and a pinch of flaky salt over the butter. Top with a layer of thin radish slices. Repeat the layering process about 7 times or until the mold is filled, ending with radishes on top.
Set and chill: Gently tap the mold on the counter to release any air bubbles. Cover and refrigerate for about 2 hours or until the terrine is firm and set.
Serve: Once set, unmold the terrine and slice. Serve on top of crackers or toasted baguette slices. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with additional flaky salt to taste for a perfect balance of flavors.

Notes

Ensure the radish slices are thoroughly dried to prevent watery butter and maintain a firm terrine texture.
You can substitute herbs based on preference, such as parsley or tarragon, for a different flavor profile.
Use a sharp mandoline or knife for uniform radish slices to ensure even layering and an attractive presentation.
The terrine can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
For a dairy-free variation, consider using a plant-based butter substitute, though texture and flavor may differ slightly.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: French

Keywords: radish butter terrine, herb butter, appetizer, no-cook recipe, chives, dill, radish slices, party appetizer, elegant starter