Garlic Aioli at Home

Garlic aioli is a flavorful and versatile condiment that combines the richness of mayonnaise with the pungent and aromatic essence of fresh garlic. It is a popular accompaniment for a variety of dishes, adding a creamy and garlicky kick to your meals. Here's a simple recipe for making garlic aioli at home:

Garlic Aioli at Home

### Ingredients:

- 1 cup mayonnaise

- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced (adjust to taste)

- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

- 1-2 teaspoons lemon juice

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: Extra-virgin olive oil for added flavor

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Garlic:**

   - Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. You can also use a garlic press for a smoother consistency.

2. **Combine Ingredients:**

   - In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.

   - If you like, add a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for additional flavor.

3. **Season to Taste:**

   - Season the aioli with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the garlic will become more pronounced as the aioli sits, so start with a smaller amount if you're sensitive to strong garlic flavors.

4. **Mix Thoroughly:**

   - Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly to ensure the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the aioli.

5. **Adjust Consistency:**

   - If the aioli is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more lemon juice or water. If it's too thin, you can add more mayonnaise.

6. **Chill (Optional):**

   - For optimal flavor, let the garlic aioli chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld.

### Serving Suggestions:

- **Dipping Sauce:** Garlic aioli is excellent as a dipping sauce for fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, or vegetable sticks.

- **Sandwich Spread:** Use it as a spread for sandwiches, burgers, or wraps to add a creamy and garlicky element.

- **Seafood Dip:** Pair garlic aioli with grilled or fried seafood, such as shrimp, calamari, or fish.

- **Vegetable Dip:** Serve it as a dip for a platter of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper.

Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences. Some variations include adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives for additional flavor. Enjoy your homemade garlic aioli!