If you are searching for a bright, flavorful sauce that elevates everything from sandwiches to roasted veggies, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Aioli with Lemon and Parsley Recipe. It perfectly balances the richness of mayonnaise with the zesty bite of fresh lemon juice and the aromatic freshness of parsley, all wrapped in a garlicky hug. This aioli creates a creamy, tangy, and herbaceous splash of flavor that feels indulgent yet effortlessly simple, making it an instant favorite for any casual meal or fancy appetizer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each item plays an important role — from the creamy base to the bright and savory accents that make the aioli sing.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: This provides the luscious creamy base that holds everything together with smoothness.
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a vibrant freshness and subtle acidity that cuts through richness.
- ½ teaspoon pepper: Just enough to bring gentle warmth and depth.
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic: The bold star note, delivering the trademark punch of garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley: Brings a splash of herbaceous color and a mild, fresh taste.
- 3 tablespoons ketchup: A surprising twist that adds a hint of sweetness and balances tanginess beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Aioli with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
Start by placing the mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lemon juice, ground pepper, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and ketchup into a medium mixing bowl. Using fresh ingredients here truly elevates the flavor, so try to avoid bottled lemon juice or pre-minced garlic for best results.
Step 2: Mix Until Silky Smooth
Use a whisk or a sturdy spatula to blend all the ingredients together in one direction until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. This step ensures that the garlic is evenly distributed, giving you consistent flavor in every bite, while the aioli itself achieves that irresistible velvety texture.
Step 3: Ready to Serve
Once combined, your aioli is ready to brighten up your meal right away. The creaminess pairs wonderfully with everything from crispy fries to grilled meats, so don’t be shy about whipping this up in advance for your next gathering.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Aioli with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra visual and flavor boost, sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley or a few lemon zest curls on top of your aioli before serving. These simple touches highlight the fresh ingredients and make your dish feel even more special.
Side Dishes
This aioli is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled vegetables, crispy fries, fresh crusty bread, or as a dipping sauce for seafood like shrimp or calamari. It’s an all-purpose condiment that brings a creamy, garlicky twist to so many sides.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual dinner, serve your Creamy Garlic Aioli with Lemon and Parsley Recipe in small bowls alongside an array of colorful crudités, artisan chips, or slider sandwiches. You can also dollop it on top of burgers or drizzle it over grilled chicken skewers to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any aioli left over, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy that delicious flavor later without a fuss.
Freezing
Because this aioli contains mayonnaise and fresh herbs, freezing is not recommended since the texture and flavor may be compromised once thawed.
Reheating
This aioli is best served cold or at room temperature. If you’ve refrigerated it, simply let it sit out for a few minutes before using it again—no reheating necessary to maintain its creamy, tangy perfection.
FAQs
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
While fresh garlic is recommended for its vibrant flavor, you can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch—start with about 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the aioli.
Is this aioli vegan?
Traditional mayonnaise is made with eggs, so this recipe is not vegan as written. However, you can use a vegan mayonnaise substitute to make it plant-based without sacrificing creaminess.
Can I adjust the lemon juice amount?
Absolutely! Feel free to tweak the lemon juice quantity depending on how tangy you like your aioli. Start with 3 tablespoons, then add more slowly if you want a brighter, more pronounced citrus kick.
What is the role of ketchup in this aioli?
Ketchup might seem unexpected, but it provides a subtle sweetness and a depth of flavor that balances the acidity of the lemon and the pungency of the garlic perfectly.
How long does the aioli last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this creamy garlic aioli will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for prepping ahead for meals or snacks.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about a homemade aioli that packs punch without fuss, and this Creamy Garlic Aioli with Lemon and Parsley Recipe hits all the right notes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, it’s a simple yet impressive addition to your culinary repertoire. Give it a try, and watch it become a go-to sauce that your friends and family ask for again and again.
Print
Creamy Garlic Aioli with Lemon and Parsley Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
This classic aioli recipe combines creamy mayonnaise with fresh garlic, zesty lemon juice, and a touch of ketchup for a flavorful spread or dip. Ready in just 5 minutes, it’s perfect for sandwiches, snacks, or as a versatile accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
Classic Aioli Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, pepper, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and ketchup together.
- Mix Thoroughly: Use a whisk or spatula to blend all the ingredients until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring the flavors are well incorporated.
- Serve: Serve the aioli immediately as a delicious sandwich spread or as a dip alongside your favorite snacks.
Notes
- For a stronger garlic flavor, increase the minced garlic by 1 tablespoon.
- Adjust lemon juice to taste for more or less tanginess.
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- This aioli pairs wonderfully with fries, grilled vegetables, and seafood dishes.
- Use fresh parsley for best flavor; dried parsley can be used but reduce quantity to ½ teaspoon.
