Creamy Garlic Aioli: Simple & Rich Homemade Dip (Print Version)

Whip up a batch of easy, creamy garlic aioli at home! This simple recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a rich, flavorful dip perfect for anything.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Dietary: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 large egg yolk (room temperature is best!)
02 - 1 cup neutral oil (like grapeseed, canola, or sunflower)

→ Flavor Boosters

03 - 3-4 fresh garlic cloves, minced very finely
04 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
05 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

→ Essential Seasoning

06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
07 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, let's get that garlic ready for our easy, creamy garlic aioli. Mince your fresh garlic cloves as finely as you possibly can. You want almost a paste, not chunky bits. I usually use a garlic press, but a sharp knife and a bit of elbow grease work too. Sometimes, I even sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt over the minced garlic and mash it with the side of my knife to really get that paste consistency. This step is key for a smooth, garlicky flavor throughout, honestly.
02 - In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together your egg yolk, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Whisk it vigorously until everything is well combined and looks slightly pale and foamy. This is where the magic starts for your creamy garlic aioli! I remember one time I didn't whisk enough, and the oil just wouldn't incorporate later. It was a watery mess, so don't be afraid to put some muscle into it here.
03 - Now for the most important step for a truly creamy garlic aioli: the oil! While continuously whisking, start adding your neutral oil, literally drop by drop at first. Seriously, just a few drops. As it starts to emulsify and thicken, you can gradually increase to a thin, steady stream. This part requires patience, but it's where your aioli transforms from liquid to that beautiful, thick consistency. I always get a little nervous here, but just keep whisking!
04 - As you keep whisking and drizzling the oil, you'll feel the mixture thicken and lighten in color. It should start to look like a thick mayonnaise. This is the moment I always feel a little thrill—it’s actually working! Keep going until all the oil is incorporated and your creamy aioli has reached your desired consistency. Don't rush it; a steady hand makes all the difference here, trust me.
05 - Once your easy, creamy garlic aioli is thick and beautiful, it's time to season. Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. I usually start with a small pinch of salt and a few grinds of pepper, then taste, and add more if needed. You want to enhance the flavors, not overpower them. This is where you make it truly *yours*. Sometimes, I'll even add a tiny bit more lemon juice if it feels like it needs another zing!
06 - Transfer your homemade creamy garlic aioli to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen, making it even more delicious. When it's chilled, it becomes even more luxurious and ready to serve with absolutely anything. The smell of the garlic mellowing in the fridge is just wonderful, honestly.

# Notes:

01 - The trick to a truly creamy aioli? Drizzle the oil super slowly, especially at the start. Rushing it means a broken emulsion, and trust me, I've been there!
02 - Store your homemade aioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day as the garlic mellows!
03 - If you're out of fresh lemon, a tiny splash of white wine vinegar can work as a substitute, but the fresh zest and juice really make a difference.
04 - This aioli is divine with crispy fries, but also try it on a burger or as a dip for roasted veggies—it elevates everything!

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Medium mixing bowl
02 - whisk
03 - garlic press (optional)

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 100-150 (approx. per 2 tbsp serving)
Total Fat: 10-15g
Total Carbohydrate: 0-1g
Protein: 0g

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