Spicy Garlic Aioli is a rich, creamy, and flavorful sauce that perfectly balances the heat of chili with the smooth, savory goodness of garlic. It’s a versatile condiment that can be used as a dip, spread, or drizzled over burgers, fries, sandwiches, or grilled vegetables.
This homemade aioli is much tastier than store-bought versions and has the added bonus of being customizable to your spice tolerance. Whether you’re serving it with crispy fries or adding a zesty kick to a sandwich, this Spicy Garlic Aioli is sure to elevate any dish.
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Garlic press or knife (for mincing garlic)
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon for mixing
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce (or any hot sauce of your choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Prepare Garlic: Mince or press the garlic cloves to release their flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth and well-combined.
- Add Garlic and Spice: Add the minced garlic, Sriracha sauce, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the aioli and adjust the spice level by adding more Sriracha or a bit more lemon juice for extra tang. Add more salt and pepper as needed.
- Chill: For best flavor, refrigerate the aioli for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
Nutrition (per tablespoon):
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Sugar: 1g
Expert Tips:
- Mayo Substitutes: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of Greek yogurt and mayo for a tangier, lower-calorie version.
- Adjust the Spice: For a milder aioli, start with 1 teaspoon of Sriracha and gradually increase to suit your spice tolerance.
- Garlic Intensity: If you like a stronger garlic flavor, you can roast the garlic first to mellow out the flavor, or use garlic powder for a subtler taste.
FAQs:
Can I use this aioli for grilling?
Yes! Spicy Garlic Aioli can be brushed on grilled meats, vegetables, or seafood for extra flavor. Just be cautious not to burn it, as it contains mayonnaise.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together. It will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Is this aioli vegan?
Traditional aioli is made with egg yolks, but this recipe uses mayonnaise, which typically contains eggs. To make it vegan, you can use vegan mayonnaise as a substitute.
Storing & Reheating:
- Storing: Store leftover Spicy Garlic Aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Reheating: Aioli should be served cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating, as it can cause the mayonnaise to separate.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Sriracha Alternative: If you prefer a different kind of heat, try adding chili garlic sauce, harissa, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different type of spice.
- Herb Variations: For a fresh twist, add chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or basil for added flavor and color.
- Add sweetness: For a sweet and spicy version, try adding a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to balance the heat with a touch of sweetness.
Spicy Garlic Aioli
Equipment
- - Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- - Garlic press or knife (for mincing garlic)
- - Measuring spoons
- - Spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- - 2 tablespoons olive oil
- - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- - 3 garlic cloves minced or pressed
- - 1–2 teaspoons Sriracha sauce or any hot sauce of your choice
- - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for extra flavor
- - Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- **Prepare Garlic**: Mince or press the garlic cloves to release their flavor.
- **Combine Ingredients**: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, and lemon juice until smooth and well-combined.
- **Add Garlic and Spice**: Add the minced garlic, Sriracha sauce, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- **Taste and Adjust**: Taste the aioli and adjust the spice level by adding more Sriracha or a bit more lemon juice for extra tang. Add more salt and pepper as needed.
- **Chill**: For best flavor, refrigerate the aioli for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
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