Zesty Lemon-Garlic Aioli Sauce

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Course Condiment

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 1.25 cups of aioli, enough for 8–10 servings as a dip or spread

Mixing bowl Medium-sized, to combine your ingredients without spillage.
Whisk or Fork To emulsify and incorporate everything smoothly.
Microplane or fine grater For zesting the lemon and grating garlic if you’re not mincing.
Garlic press (optional) Makes quick work of turning garlic cloves into a paste.
Airtight container For storing your aioli in the fridge. A mason jar works perfectly.

1 cup mayonnaise – The base of the sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade mayo. It’s the classic foundation for any garlic aioli sauce or mayo sauce blend.
3 cloves garlic finely minced or smashed into a paste – Roasted garlic can also be used if you want a mellower, more caramelized flavor (think roasted garlic aioli).
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Adds brightness and tang. Don’t skip this; it’s what makes the aioli truly zesty.
1 teaspoon lemon zest – This intensifies the citrusy punch.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Gives a subtle heat and complexity.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt – Balances and enhances the other flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A mild kick of spice.
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or smoked paprika – For a spicy aioli sauce twist.
Optional additions: a dash of chipotle powder to lean into chipotle aioli sauce territory, finely chopped fresh basil (hello, basil aioli), or even a small spoonful of pesto for a pesto aioli spin.

Finely mince or crush the garlic until it's paste-like. Zest the lemon first, then juice it. Set these aside.

In a medium mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

Stir in the garlic paste, salt, black pepper, and (if using) cayenne or smoked paprika.

Use a whisk or fork to combine everything until the sauce is uniform and creamy. It should be thick and hold its shape but easily spoonable.

Try a small spoonful and tweak as needed—maybe a touch more lemon for brightness or garlic for intensity. If you want to make it resemble a spicy garlic aioli or chipotle aioli recipe, now’s the time to mix in chipotle powder or hot sauce.

Transfer the aioli to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.