Name: Roasted Garlic Aioli
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole garlic bulb; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1/2 cup mayonnaise (vegan mayo if desired); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Creamy, tangy, and packed with the rich, mellow depth of roasted garlic, this Roasted Garlic Aioli is the kind of condiment I keep reaching for again and again. Whether I’m layering it onto sandwiches, dolloping it over roasted vegetables, or simply using it as a dip for fries, this homemade aioli takes any dish to a gourmet level.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 whole garlic bulb

1 teaspoon olive oil

1/2 cup mayonnaise (vegan mayo if desired)

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Then I slice off the top of the garlic bulb to expose the cloves, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap it in foil.

I roast it in the oven for 35–40 minutes, until the cloves are soft, golden, and fragrant.

After letting it cool slightly, I squeeze the garlic cloves out of their skins into a bowl.

I mash the roasted garlic into a smooth paste.

In another bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, mashed garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

I taste and adjust the seasoning, then refrigerate the aioli for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can meld before I serve it.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 95 kcal per tablespoon

Variations

Make it Vegan: I swap in vegan mayo for a completely plant-based version.

Spicy Kick: Sometimes I stir in a pinch of cayenne or a bit of hot sauce for heat.

Herb-Infused: I add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra brightness.

Smoky Flavor: I use smoked paprika or chipotle powder to give the aioli a smoky twist.

Lemon Zest: A bit of lemon zest brightens it up even more when I want a citrus-forward taste.

Storage/Reheating

I store the aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Since it’s mayonnaise-based, I avoid leaving it out at room temperature for long. I don’t reheat this sauce—it’s meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. If it thickens too much in the fridge, I just stir in a tiny splash of lemon juice or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

How long does roasted garlic aioli last in the fridge?

I keep it for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the fridge. It usually gets better after the first day as the flavors meld.

Can I use store-bought roasted garlic?

Yes, I can substitute store-bought roasted garlic to save time, but I prefer roasting it myself for the freshest flavor.

Is this aioli safe for vegans?

If I use vegan mayonnaise, it becomes completely vegan-friendly.

What can I use this aioli with?

I spread it on sandwiches, burgers, and wraps, or use it as a dip for fries, veggies, or even grilled shrimp.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make it a day ahead so the flavors develop more fully by the time I serve it.

Conclusion

This Roasted Garlic Aioli has become one of my favorite condiments to whip up when I want to elevate a simple meal. It’s creamy, flavorful, and flexible enough to match whatever I’m cooking. Whether I use it as a dip, spread, or sauce, it never fails to impress.

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