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Garlic Aioli Sauce Recipe

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4.5 from 136 reviews

A simple and flavorful Garlic Aioli Sauce made with fresh garlic, creamy mayonnaise, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil. Perfect as a dip, spread, or condiment to elevate sandwiches, grilled meats, and vegetables with its rich, tangy, and slightly spicy profile.

Ingredients

Aioli Base

  • 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably homemade or high-quality store-bought)
  • 4-6 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to your preference)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Seasonings & Garnishes

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for added tang
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. Mince the Garlic: Mince garlic finely using a sharp knife to avoid bitterness. For a smoother texture, sprinkle a pinch of salt onto the minced garlic and use the flat side of your knife to mash it into a paste.
  2. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise, the prepared garlic (paste or minced), freshly squeezed lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil.
  3. Season and Adjust: Stir in salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you want a bit of heat.
  4. Whisk it All Together: Using a whisk, blend all ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the aioli and adjust any seasoning – add more garlic, lemon juice, salt, or pepper based on your personal preference.
  6. Optional Additions: Mix in Dijon mustard for tanginess and stir in finely chopped parsley or chives to brighten the flavor and add color.
  7. Chill and Let the Flavors Meld: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to fully develop and meld.

Notes

  • For a smoother texture, making a garlic paste helps disperse the garlic flavor evenly throughout the sauce.
  • Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste preference; more garlic will make it stronger and more pungent.
  • This aioli keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice may affect the freshness.
  • Can be used as a dip for fries, a spread for sandwiches, or a sauce for grilled meats and vegetables.