Creamy Garlic Aioli Recipe
If you’re looking for a rich, tangy, and ultra-versatile dip or spread, look no further than Creamy Garlic Aioli. Bursting with bold garlic flavors, fresh lemon, and the silky base of mayo, this Mediterranean favorite is incredibly easy to whip up and brings irresistible zest to everything from sandwiches to roasted veggies. Ready in minutes, it’s a go-to staple that will win over garlic lovers and become the secret star at your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Creamy Garlic Aioli absolutely sing is the beautiful simplicity of its ingredients. Each component has a job to do, creating a dip with just the right balance of zest, creaminess, and aromatic punch. Make sure to use good-quality ingredients for the brightest flavors!
- Mayonnaise: The creamy, tangy base for your aioli; use a full-fat mayo for the richest texture.
- Garlic (minced or grated): The absolute star; go for fresh garlic to unlock that signature aroma and heat.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds zippy brightness, balancing out the richness and making the aioli feel light and fresh.
- Dijon Mustard: Brings a gentle kick and layers of savory depth that keep the flavor interesting.
- Salt: Enhances and pulls all the flavors together; don’t skip it!
- Black Pepper: Adds a subtle background warmth and a tiny bit of bite.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Aioli
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before you get started, double-check that you have everything measured out and ready. This recipe goes by fast, so having your ingredients prepped will make the whole process seamless and stress-free.
Step 2: Combine Everything
In a medium mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, minced or grated garlic, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. The cool thing about Creamy Garlic Aioli is that you don’t need any special equipment—just a good whisk and a bowl!
Step 3: Whisk Until Creamy
Use your whisk to blend everything together vigorously. Take a moment to enjoy how the aroma of garlic fills the kitchen! When it looks lusciously smooth and the color is even, you’re done. Taste and add a pinch more salt or lemon juice if you want to adjust the flavor.
Step 4: Let the Flavors Meld
This step is a little secret to extra depth: cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill it for at least 30 minutes. The garlic softens and fuses with the other ingredients, making your Creamy Garlic Aioli taste even more spectacular.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
When you’re ready, give the aioli a final stir and serve it chilled. Whether it’s slathered on a sandwich, dolloped for dipping, or swirled over grilled veggies, you’ll be amazed at how easily this little sauce transforms any meal.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Aioli
Garnishes
To take your Creamy Garlic Aioli presentation to the next level, consider garnishing it with a light drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or freshly cracked black pepper right on top. These extra touches make every spoonful even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This dip is wildly versatile! Pair Creamy Garlic Aioli with crispy potato wedges, warm pita bread, or fresh-cut veggies. It also brings a whole new dimension to grilled meats and seafood, turning even simple weeknight dinners into something special.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your aioli in a small rustic jar or ramekin for easy dipping during a party, or swirl it decoratively over roasted vegetables on a platter. For a tapas-style spread, offer different aioli variations (try adding smoked paprika or fresh herbs!) alongside the classic Creamy Garlic Aioli to delight friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve made your Creamy Garlic Aioli, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just be sure to keep it cold and always use a clean spoon for serving.
Freezing
While aioli is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze Creamy Garlic Aioli for up to a month. Keep in mind that the texture may separate once thawed, so a quick whisk (or food processor pulse) can help bring it back together before serving.
Reheating
This sauce is at its best served chilled, not heated. If it’s been in the fridge and feels extra thick, let it sit at room temperature for ten minutes and give it a good stir before using.
FAQs
What’s the difference between aioli and mayonnaise?
Traditional aioli is made by emulsifying garlic and olive oil, but in modern kitchens, it often means a garlic-forward mayonnaise like our Creamy Garlic Aioli. The addition of fresh lemon and mustard gives it extra brightness and tang!
Can I adjust the garlic strength?
Absolutely! If you adore super garlicky sauces, use raw garlic as directed. For a mellower version, try roasting the garlic first or using less of it—you’re in complete control.
What are some creative mix-ins for variation?
Add smoked paprika for a Spanish twist, fresh herbs for a garden-fresh flavor, or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat. The base Creamy Garlic Aioli is endlessly adaptable to your tastes.
Is this aioli gluten-free and vegetarian?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegetarian (though always check your mayonnaise label to be sure), making it an excellent option for a variety of diets and gatherings.
Can I make Creamy Garlic Aioli in advance?
You bet! In fact, letting the aioli chill for a few hours makes the flavor even better. Just mix, store, and use as needed throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Once you taste homemade Creamy Garlic Aioli, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s quick, adaptable, and never fails to impress—so grab your ingredients and dive in! Your meals (and your friends) will thank you.
Print
Creamy Garlic Aioli Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of this homemade Creamy Garlic Aioli. This versatile sauce pairs perfectly with sandwiches, meats, and veggies, adding a burst of flavor to your dishes.
Ingredients
Mayonnaise:
1 cup
Garlic:
3 cloves (minced or grated)
Fresh Lemon Juice:
1 tablespoon
Dijon Mustard:
1 teaspoon
Salt:
1/4 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the aioli and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Chill: For optimal flavor, refrigerate the aioli for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve: Use chilled aioli as a dip, spread, or sauce for various dishes.
Notes
- For a stronger garlic flavor, use raw garlic.
- For a milder taste, consider roasting the garlic before adding it to the aioli.
- Store aioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 95mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
