Roasted Garlic Aioli with Lemon Zest

This Roasted Garlic Aioli with Lemon Zest is a luxurious, silky condiment that adds instant elegance to any dish. The slow-roasted garlic gives it a deep, nutty sweetness, while fresh lemon zest brightens every bite. Perfect as a dipping sauce, sandwich spread, or drizzle over roasted vegetables and seafood — it’s the kind of sauce that turns a simple meal into something unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Garlic Aioli
🧄 Rich & Velvety: Slow-roasted garlic adds buttery depth and smooth texture.
🍋 Bright & Fresh: Lemon zest and juice lift the flavor with a zesty finish.
🥖 Versatile Magic: Perfect for fries, veggies, grilled meats, or as a sandwich spread.
⏱️ Simple Yet Elegant: Just a few ingredients for a restaurant-worthy result.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 head of garlic
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or homemade aioli base)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tsp olive oil (for roasting garlic)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Optional: 1 egg yolk and ½ cup olive oil if making from scratch instead of using mayo.)

How to Make Roasted Garlic Aioli with Lemon Zest

Step 1 – Roast the Garlic:
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for 30–35 minutes until soft and golden. Let cool, then squeeze out the cloves.

Step 2 – Combine Ingredients:
In a bowl, mash roasted garlic into a smooth paste. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and zest. Mix until creamy.

Step 3 – Season to Taste:
Add salt and pepper to balance the flavor. Chill for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Tips for Perfect Aioli

🧄 Roast garlic until golden, not burnt — that’s where the sweetness lies.
🍋 Use fresh lemon zest for a bright, aromatic lift.
🥄 For a lighter version, substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
🌿 Add a hint of thyme or parsley for an herby twist.

What to Serve With Roasted Garlic Aioli

• Crispy fries or roasted potatoes
• Grilled vegetables or asparagus
• Seared scallops or shrimp
• Chicken sandwiches or burgers
• Artisanal bread or crostini

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Can I use raw garlic instead?
You can, but the flavor will be sharper and less sweet. Roasting mellows it beautifully.

Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely — use vegan mayo for a fully plant-based version.

Conclusion

Creamy, garlicky, and kissed with bright lemon — this Roasted Garlic Aioli with Lemon Zest brings pure Mediterranean warmth to any plate. Whether you’re dipping, spreading, or drizzling, it’s a small touch that makes every bite shine. ✨