Description
A creamy and zesty Pesto Aioli perfect for dipping or spreading, made in just 5 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise, regular or homemade
- 3/4 cup (180 ml) pesto, any varieties of fresh basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto
- 1/21/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) garlic, minced
- 1/21/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) lemon zest
- 1/21/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) lemon juice
- pinch kosher salt
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients Smoothly: Start by whisking together mayonnaise, pesto, and lemon juice in a mixing bowl. The vibrant colors will merge beautifully. Be careful not to whisk too vigorously to avoid splattering.
- Add Garlic & Zest: Stir in freshly minced garlic and lemon zest. The fresh, zesty aroma will fill the air. Start with a little and taste as you go to prevent overpowering the mix with too much garlic.
- Season & Taste: Sprinkle some salt and pepper into the mixture as you blend. Taste the aioli; it should be zesty and flavorful. If it tastes flat, add extra garlic or pesto to boost the flavor, adding seasonings gradually.
- Chill Before Serving: Place the aioli in the fridge before serving. Chilling helps thicken it and melds the flavors together beautifully. Avoid letting it sit for too long to prevent separation.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- If the aioli is too thin, add more mayo until it reaches the desired thickness.
- If the flavor is too bland, increase the minced garlic, lemon zest, or pesto.
- If the aioli separates in the fridge, stir well before use; settling is normal.
- For a healthier version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
- Reheating is not applicable as this serves best chilled.
- Pair with grilled chicken sandwiches.
- Use as a dip for fresh vegetables.
- Spread on wraps with turkey and spinach.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter option.
- For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper.
- Use different herbs like cilantro for a twist.
- Choose high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
- Different varieties of pesto can be used to change the taste.
- Check the freshness of garlic for optimal flavor in the aioli.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 79
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 224mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 3mg