Garlic Aioli
Garlic Aioli is a creamy, garlicky sauce that’s perfect for elevating any dish. This versatile condiment adds flavor to burgers, fries, and even roasted vegetables. Its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for gatherings, picnics, or weeknight dinners. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful sauce in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 5 minutes of active prep time, you can have Garlic Aioli ready to serve.
- Versatile Uses: Perfect as a dip for fries, a spread for sandwiches, or a complement to grilled meats.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust the garlic and lemon levels to suit your taste; it’s easy to make it your own!
- Creamy Texture: The light mayonnaise gives this aioli a smooth consistency that enhances any dish.
- Healthy Option: Lower in calories than many store-bought sauces, making it a guilt-free choice.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Garlic Aioli, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These items will help ensure your aioli is delicious and easy to prepare.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Whisk
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Storage container
Importance of Each Tool
- Whisk: A good whisk is crucial for achieving a smooth and creamy texture in your aioli.
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl allows enough space for whisking without spilling.
- Storage container: Use an airtight container to keep your Garlic Aioli fresh in the fridge.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 3/4 cup light mayonnaise (see note 1 about using mayonnaise to make aioli, see note 2 about making this vegan)
For the Flavor
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
For Seasoning
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt (if using table salt, start with less)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
How to Make Garlic Aioli
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, add the light mayonnaise.
- Add minced garlic cloves and lemon juice.
- Sprinkle in kosher salt and ground black pepper.
Step 2: Whisk Together
- Use your whisk to mix all the ingredients thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Chill Before Serving
- Transfer your Garlic Aioli into an airtight storage container.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Enjoy this delicious Garlic Aioli as a dipping sauce for French fries or as a topping on your favorite burgers!
How to Serve Garlic Aioli
Garlic Aioli is a versatile sauce that enhances a variety of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it as a dip or a spread, here are some fantastic ways to serve this creamy delight.
As a Burger Topping
- Elevate your burger with a generous dollop of garlic aioli for an extra layer of flavor.
With French Fries
- Serve garlic aioli as an alternative to ketchup for dipping fries. Its rich taste complements the crispy texture perfectly.
On Roasted Vegetables
- Drizzle garlic aioli over roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts for a delicious finish.
In Sandwiches
- Spread garlic aioli on sandwiches or wraps instead of mayonnaise for added zest.
With Seafood
- Pair garlic aioli with grilled shrimp or fish for a delightful contrast to the seafood’s natural flavors.
As a Salad Dressing
- Thin out garlic aioli with some water or extra lemon juice to create a creamy dressing for salads.
How to Perfect Garlic Aioli
Creating the perfect garlic aioli involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sauce turns out amazing every time.
- Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor compared to pre-minced options.
- Adjust salt level: Start with less salt if you’re using table salt; kosher salt has larger grains and is less salty by volume.
- Chill before serving: Allowing the aioli to sit in the fridge enhances the flavors and improves texture.
- Experiment with herbs: Add herbs like dill or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Consider vegan options: Substitute mayonnaise with aquafaba or silken tofu for a vegan-friendly version.
- Balance acidity: Adjust lemon juice according to taste; it brightens the sauce but too much can overpower it.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Aioli
Garlic Aioli pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes, making them even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider:
- Crispy French Fries: Golden and crunchy, these are perfect for dipping into creamy garlic sauce.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with the bold flavors of garlic aioli.
- Grilled Asparagus: The slight char from grilling adds depth, making it an excellent pair with the sauce.
- Crab Cakes: The richness of crab cakes is elevated by dipping them in delicious garlic aioli.
- Veggie Platter: Fresh veggies like carrots and cucumbers provide a healthy crunch alongside this creamy dip.
- Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked until crispy, these wedges are perfect for scooping up all that garlicky goodness.
- Pita Chips: Crispy pita chips make for an easy snack when paired with flavorful garlic aioli.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites become even more delicious when served with a side of garlic dipping sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Garlic Aioli is a simple recipe, but small errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Using too much garlic: While garlic is the star of Garlic Aioli, too much can overpower the sauce. Start with five cloves and adjust according to your taste.
- Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing the aioli to chill for at least 30 minutes can result in a less flavorful sauce. This step helps the flavors meld beautifully.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring spoons and cups for precision.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality mayonnaise or garlic can impact the overall taste of your Garlic Aioli. Invest in good ingredients for the best flavor.
- Not adjusting salt levels: Kosher salt and table salt vary in intensity. Always start with less table salt and add more if needed.
- Over-whisking: Whisking too vigorously can incorporate unnecessary air into the aioli, affecting its texture. Aim for a smooth consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Garlic Aioli in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Garlic Aioli
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
Reheating Garlic Aioli
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on low power in short bursts (10-15 seconds), stirring each time until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Gently heat over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Garlic Aioli that might help you.
What is Garlic Aioli?
Garlic Aioli is a creamy sauce made primarily from mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and seasonings. It’s versatile and enhances various dishes.
Can I make Garlic Aioli vegan?
Yes! To make vegan Garlic Aioli, simply use vegan mayonnaise instead of regular mayo. The taste will remain delicious!
How long does Garlic Aioli last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, Garlic Aioli lasts up to one week in the refrigerator.
What dishes pair well with Garlic Aioli?
Garlic Aioli pairs wonderfully with burgers, fries, roasted vegetables, and seafood dishes like crab cakes.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Aioli is not just a condiment; it’s a delightful addition that enhances many meals. This easy-to-make sauce is perfect for dipping or drizzling on your favorite dishes. Feel free to customize it by adding herbs or spices to suit your taste!
Garlic Aioli
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings (2 tablespoons each) 1x
Description
Garlic Aioli is a creamy, flavorful sauce that elevates any dish with its rich garlic taste. This versatile condiment is perfect as a dip for fries, a spread for sandwiches, or a topping for grilled meats. With minimal ingredients and just a little prep time, you can create this delightful aioli in under five minutes. It’s an ideal addition to your gatherings, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s lower in calories than many store-bought sauces, making it a guilt-free indulgence!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 5 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the light mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
- Add kosher salt and black pepper.
- Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 30g
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 182mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
