Name: Garlic Aioli Sauce: The Ultimate Guide to Making Perfect Aioli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 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; 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

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Introduction

Garlic aioli is a creamy, flavorful sauce that adds a punch of garlicky goodness to just about any dish. This ultimate guide will show you how to make perfect aioli easily at home, with fresh ingredients and simple steps.

A close-up image shows a small blue bowl filled with smooth, creamy white sauce sprinkled on top with red chili flakes and green herbs. A wooden spoon lifting some of the thick sauce from the bowl is held just above it. Behind the bowl, there are yellow French fries and whole garlic bulbs, all placed on a round wooden board. The surface beneath has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
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

Step 1: Mince the garlic finely with a knife. Avoid using a garlic press to prevent bitterness. For a smoother texture, create a garlic paste by adding a pinch of salt to the minced garlic and smearing it on your cutting board with the flat side of your knife.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic (or garlic paste), lemon juice, and olive oil.
Step 3: Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like some heat.
Step 4: Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Taste the aioli and adjust seasonings as needed — add more garlic, lemon juice, salt, or pepper to your liking.
Step 6: Stir in the Dijon mustard for extra tang, and fold in fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness.
Step 7: Cover and refrigerate the aioli for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh, high-quality garlic and olive oil to enhance flavor and avoid bitterness.
For a lighter aioli, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Add a dash of smoked paprika or roasted red pepper for a smoky twist.
If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use fewer cloves and let the aioli chill longer for a mellow taste.

Storage

Store garlic aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before using. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a textured black bowl filled with creamy white dip, topped with green chopped herbs and red spice flakes, with a wooden spoon lifting a dollop of the dip revealing its smooth and thick texture. Behind the bowl, there are golden-yellow French fries garnished with small green herbs, all placed on a wooden tray resting on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make aioli without mayonnaise?

Traditional aioli is made from garlic and olive oil emulsified together, but it can be tricky. Using mayonnaise as a base simplifies the process and still delivers great flavor.

How long does homemade garlic aioli keep?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, garlic aioli stays fresh for about 3 days. Always check for off smells or changes in texture before using.