This Lemon Garlic Aioli isn’t just a sauce—it’s a passport. Inspired by Mediterranean beach cafés and Southern backyard spreads, it fuses roasted garlic warmth with citrusy brightness for a flavor that dances across cultures.
You’ll master the emulsion technique with ease—no culinary degree required. Think creamy French aioli meets the punch of Italian gremolata, with just the right Southern tang to pair beautifully with a chilled Cranberry Pineapple Punch or crunchy Cabbage Cucumber Salad.
Whether dolloped over roasted potatoes or slathered on veggie burgers, this aioli elevates even simple dishes to something unforgettable. Start with a spoon—end up spreading it on everything in sight.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- I first whipped this up after tasting something similar at a cliffside café in Cinque Terre—only to realize I could make it better at home with a Southern twist.
- It fits perfectly into weeknight dinners when I want big flavor without turning on the oven—blend, chill, and serve.
- I’ve swapped the lemon for yuzu or added smoked paprika on occasion—it’s endlessly riffable depending on your mood or menu.
- It’s been a secret weapon during my weight-loss journey: low-carb, high-flavor, and far more satisfying than store-bought condiments.
Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe
Lemon Garlic Aioli is a zesty, creamy sauce perfect for dipping fries, drizzling over roasted veggies, or spreading on sandwiches. Made with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and mayo, it comes together quickly and adds a bright, tangy kick to any savory dish.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Garlic press or fine grater
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Citrus juicer
Ingredients
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup mayonaise
- ¼ tsp cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced or pressed garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Whisk everything together until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- For extra brightness, you can add a bit of lemon zest to the mix.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- You can serve it immediately, or let it chill in the fridge to intensify the flavor—about 15 minutes is enough for the ingredients to blend beautifully.
Notes
- Roasting the garlic before adding it creates a mellow, sweeter flavor if raw garlic is too sharp for your taste.
- Use high-quality mayonnaise for the best texture and flavor—homemade or your favorite brand.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 208kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 12g |
