Aioli is a luscious, creamy blend of garlic and olive oil, often enriched with egg yolks and a touch of lemon juice for brightness. Its rich, garlicky flavour and velvety texture make it the perfect companion for crispy fries, fresh vegetables, grilled seafood, or crusty bread. Each dollop delivers a luxurious burst of savoury indulgence.
Preparation time
less than 30 mins
Cooking time
No cooking
Serves
Serves 4
By James Martin
From Stately Suppers
This recipe scores well-balanced on the Nutri-Score scale, combining healthy fats and fresh ingredients for a tasty yet nutritious option.(Nutri-Score)
Equipment
Ingredients
- Free-range egg yolks: 3
- Garlic cloves: 4
- Lemon juice: ½
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Extra virgin olive oil: 150ml/5fl oz
- Mustard powder (optional): A pinch
- Saffron (optional): A pinch
Method
Prepare the Base
- Combine the egg yolks, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor.
Add the Olive Oil
- Turn on the food processor and pour the olive oil in a steady stream until the mixture thickens into a vibrant yellow sauce.
Customize the Flavor
- Add mustard powder or saffron for a flavor twist, if desired.
- If you prefer a runnier consistency, mix in a couple of tablespoons of hot water.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the aioli with baguette slices or raw vegetables like celery, carrot sticks, cucumber sticks, radishes, fennel strips, pepper strips, or cherry tomatoes.
Suggested Wine Pairing
Majestic: El Albillo Real Blanco
A crisp white with citrus and herbal notes that complements the garlic and olive oil in the aioli beautifully.
Tesco: Picpoul de Pinet Cuvée
Bright and zesty, this wine balances the creamy texture of the aioli while enhancing its garlicky flavor.
Sainsbury’s: Soave Classico
Light and fruity, this wine pairs well with the fresh vegetables served alongside the aioli.
What can you serve with this
- Baguette slices: Perfect for dipping and enjoying the creamy aioli.
- Raw vegetables: Crisp celery, carrot, cucumber, and radishes add crunch and balance.
- Grilled seafood: Aioli enhances the flavours of grilled prawns or fish.
- Roasted potatoes: A classic pairing that brings out the rich garlic flavour.
Nutri-score Health Check
This recipe earns a Nutri-Score of B for being well-balanced. It features heart-healthy olive oil and fresh ingredients while avoiding excessive fats or sugars.
The score is calculated based on the ingredients and is only a guide.
Recipe FAQs
- What is aioli? Aioli is a creamy garlic sauce made with olive oil, egg yolks, and lemon juice.
- Can I make aioli without a food processor? Yes, you can whisk it by hand or use an immersion blender.
- Can I store aioli? Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Can I use regular olive oil instead of extra virgin? Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor, but regular olive oil can work in a pinch.
- How can I make the aioli thicker? Blend it longer or reduce the amount of oil slightly.
- Can I add herbs to the aioli? Yes, fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or dill can enhance the flavor.
- What can I serve with aioli? Baguette slices, raw vegetables, grilled seafood, or roasted potatoes are excellent choices.
- Is aioli the same as mayonnaise? While similar, aioli traditionally features garlic, giving it a more robust flavor.
- Can I make aioli vegan? Yes, replace egg yolks with aquafaba (chickpea water) for a vegan alternative
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