Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (225g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
  • 1/4 cup (30g) walnuts, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup (30g) pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted
  • 1/4 cup (30g) dried dates, pitted and finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon sumac
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the walnuts, pistachios, and sesame seeds and toast, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. While the nuts are cooling, chop the dates, mint, parsley, and dill.
  3. Spread the softened butter evenly onto the serving board or platter, creating a smooth, even layer.
  4. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the butter.
  5. Sprinkle the toasted nuts, chopped dates, fresh herbs (mint, parsley, dill), sumac, and red pepper flakes (if using) evenly over the butter. This is your Butter Board Persian Style design.
  6. Season generously with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  7. Serve immediately with warm bread, crackers, or crudités for dipping.