Aioli Recipe | Quick Garlic Aioli – Dassana’s Veg Recipes

Aioli is a classic Mediterranean garlic sauce. This easy mayonnaise-based version is made with fresh garlic, lemon juice and black pepper instead of the traditional garlic and olive oil emulsion. It comes together in just a few minutes and has a balanced garlic flavor that pairs well with fries, roasted vegetables, burgers and sandwiches. It is an easy homemade dip and spread that doesn’t require any cooking or special equipment.

Ingredients You Need

This recipe uses only four ingredients.

1. Mayonnaise: I use either Eggless Mayonnaise or vegan mayonnaise as the creamy base for this aioli. You can also use regular mayonnaise, but choose a good-quality one for the best flavor.
2. Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the aioli its distinct flavor. Mince it very finely so it blends evenly into the mayonnaise. I prefer using a garlic press to mince the garlic because it is quick, easy and convenient.
3. Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a light tang and complements the garlic and mayonnaise.
4. Ground black pepper: Ground black pepper gives a mild heat and extra flavor. Since mayonnaise already contains salt, additional salt is usually not needed.

If you enjoy making easy homemade sauces and condiments, you can also try:

How to Make Garlic Aioli (Stepwise)

1. In a small bowl, add ½ cup of your preferred mayonnaise. You can use homemade mayonnaise or a good-quality store-bought one.

2. Add ½ teaspoon finely minced garlic and ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked pepper or ground black pepper.

3. Pour in 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice. Avoid bottled lemon juice.

4. Mix everything very well until smooth and evenly combined.

5. Taste the aioli and add a little more black pepper if you like. There is usually no need to add salt since the mayonnaise already contains enough seasoning. But if you prefer, you can add a few pinches of salt.

Let the garlic aioli rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This gives the garlic time to infuse the mayonnaise for a more rounded flavor.

Serve immediately or refrigerate until needed.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic aioli is a versatile dip, spread and sauce that pairs well with many appetizers and snacks. Serve it with crispy potato snacks like patatas bravas, french fries, potato wedges, roasted or grilled vegetables, onion rings or crispy cauliflower. I also like to serve it with Peri Peri Fries.

It also makes a delicious spread for Veggie Burger, Vegetable Sandwich and wraps like Shawarma. Serve it alongside grilled corn, pita chips, Vegetable Cutlet, Falafel or toasted bread for an easy snack or light meal.

Storage

Store garlic aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 to 2 days.

Always use a clean spoon while serving. Do not leave it at room temperature for long periods.

Helpful Tips

1. Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor and aroma. Avoid garlic powder or bottled minced garlic if possible, as they don’t have the same fresh, bright taste.
2. Adjust the garlic to taste: This recipe has a balanced garlic flavor. For a stronger garlic aioli, increase the total amount of minced garlic to ¾ teaspoon or up to 1 teaspoon, depending on your preference.
3. Use good-quality mayonnaise: Homemade, eggless, vegan or regular mayonnaise all work well. Since mayonnaise is the main ingredient, using a good-quality one makes a noticeable difference to the flavor.
4. Use fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the aioli a brighter, fresher taste than bottled lemon juice.
5. Taste before adding salt: Most mayonnaise already contains enough salt, so taste the aioli first. If needed, adjust the flavor with a little more black pepper, a few extra drops of lemon juice or a small pinch of salt.
6. Make it vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise to make a completely vegan garlic aioli.
7. Scale and store: This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled for a larger batch. Store the aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy it within 1 to 2 days for the best flavor.