Lemon Aioli
A creamy, zesty garlic and lemon aioli that's incredibly easy to make. This versatile sauce is perfect for dipping fries, spreading on sandwiches, or serving with grilled fish and vegetables.
For 8 servings
5 steps.
- 1
On a cutting board, finely mince the garlic cloves
- a.Sprinkle the salt over the minced garlic. Using the flat side of your knife, press and scrape the garlic and salt mixture back and forth for about 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. This step is crucial for mellowing the sharp bite of the raw garlic.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a medium bowl, combine the garlic paste, mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, and Dijon mustard.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Whisk all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well-combined. Taste the aioli and add the freshly ground black pepper. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 4
Step 4
- a.If you prefer a thinner consistency, whisk in the cold water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired texture.
- 5
Step 5
- a.For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice and fresh garlic.
- 2Making a garlic paste with salt is key to a smooth texture and mellows the harshness of raw garlic.
- 3Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to your personal preference. Start with less and add more to taste.
- 4For a richer, more traditional flavor, use a high-quality mayonnaise made with olive oil or avocado oil.
- 5Store the aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Aioli
Whisk in 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Herbed AioliHerbed Aioli
Stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, dill, or basil for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Smoky AioliSmoky Aioli
Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a delicious, smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled meats and potatoes.
Truffle AioliTruffle Aioli
For a gourmet touch, stir in 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of truffle oil at the end. Be careful, as truffle oil is very potent.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Antimicrobial Properties
Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its potent antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, which can help support a healthy immune system.
Rich in Antioxidants
Fresh lemon juice is an excellent source of Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Source of Healthy Fats
When made with a mayonnaise based on olive oil or avocado oil, this aioli provides monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Traditionally, aioli is an emulsion of garlic and olive oil, made by hand with a mortar and pestle. Mayonnaise is an emulsion of egg yolk and a neutral oil. This recipe is a 'cheater's aioli' or a garlic-flavored mayonnaise, which is a common and delicious shortcut.