Easy Garlic Basil Mayo

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Try this easy garlic basil mayo for a fun and fresh way to add big flavor to sandwiches, salads, and much more. It takes just 5 minutes to whip up this vibrant condiment with prepared mayonnaise.

a white bowl full of basil mayonnaise.

I’ve always loved condiments, sauces, and dressings for their ability to take a dish to the next level. A simple garlic basil mayo like this one can easily transform sandwiches, potato salad, burgers, grilled fish and much more into something special. It’s even great as a dip for veggies!

The best part is how simple it is to make this flavored mayonnaise though. It takes just 5 minutes, 5 super simple ingredients, and it’s absolutely delicious!

Ingredients & Substitutions

This is such an easy recipe. It’s quick to whip up with just these few ingredients and the result is a balanced, fresh, vibrant basil mayo that you’ll spread on every sandwich in sight.

ingredients to make flavored mayo including fresh basil, garlic, lemon, and salt.
Ingredients to make garlic basil mayo are simple, but make a vibrant, flavorful condiment.
  • Basil – I highly recommend using fresh basil. Dried basil has a much different flavor and texture. If you don’t have basil, try using a different herb! Parsley, dill, or cilantro would be great.
  • Mayonnaise – Use any mayonnaise you like! Store bought, homemade, or even vegan.
  • Garlic – I use fresh, crushed garlic to add a spicy bite. You can use oven roasted garlic, or garlic powder. Powdered may leave a gritty texture however.
  • Lemon juice – Just a splash of fresh lemon juice amps up the basil flavor and cuts through the richness of mayo. Bottled will also work if that’s what you have.
  • Salt – Taste your mayo first, and then if needed, add a pinch of salt. It can help amplify the flavors and make it truly out of this world.

How to Make It – 2 Methods

There are two approaches to making garlic basil mayo, and both are very easy. No matter what you choose, you’ll end up with a flavorful, infused mayonnaise ready to use.

  • Mixed by Hand – Just a knife and a cutting board can bring this together quickly. Finely mince the basil and mix it in the mayo with the lemon juice. Crush the garlic, mince it finely, then use the edge of your knife to grind and smash it into a paste.
  • Food Processor – You can also add all the ingredients into a food processor and let it blend it all for you. This is quick and easy of course!

Once prepared, store any leftover basil mayonnaise in the fridge in an airtight container. Use within 2 weeks.

a bowl of basil mayonnaise with fresh basil beside it.

FAQ’s

Can I use dried basil?

I don’t recommend swapping dried basil for fresh in a recipe like basil mayo. It has a different flavor and texture, and just doesn’t infuse as well. If you’re determined, let the mayo sit for at least 24 hours before using it.

What kind of mayonnaise should I use?

You can use any kind of mayo you like. Regular, vegan, homemade – all will work very well with the basil and garlic.

What’s the difference between aioli and mayonnaise?

Traditionally aioli is an emulsion made with olive oil, salt, garlic, and sometimes egg. Mayonnaise is a blend of egg yolks and canola oil. Nowadays the terms are used interchangeably and you’ll often find flavored mayo referred to as an aioli.

How long will basil mayo last in the fridge?

I would recommend using this within 2 weeks. If using homemade mayonnaise, use within 7 days.

Can I use other herbs?

Absolutely. While this recipe is specifically for a basil mayo, you could easily swap in dill, parsley, or cilantro for different, but delicious, results!

lemon and fresh basil beside a bowl of garlic basil mayonnaise.
Lemon and salt enhance the garlic and basil that makes this mayo incredible!

How to Use it

This is the fun part – how to use your garlic basil mayo once it’s made! There are so many delicious options, here are just a few of my suggestions.

But no matter how you choose to enjoy it, I’m positive that this easy garlic basil mayo will make your meal more enjoyable. I’d love to hear what you love to spread this on, and as always Happy Eating!

Easy Garlic Basil Mayo

Mikayla M.
A handful of simple ingredients and 5 minutes is all you need to make this creamy basil and garlic infused mayonnaise. Use your favorite store-bought or homemade mayo and use it to add big flavor to sandwiches, burgers, veggies and more.
5 from 14 votes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course Condiment
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 192 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves packed
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 large garlic clove or 2 small
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt to taste

Instructions
 

Hand Prepped

  • Finely mince the garlic with a pinch of salt until almost a paste.
  • Finely mince the basil.
  • Combine the garlic paste, lemon juice, and basil with the mayonnaise and stir until well combined.
  • Taste and add a pinch or two more salt as needed, stirring after each addition.
  • Use or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks,

Food Processor

  • Give the garlic a rough chop and add it to the food processor with the basil leaves and lemon juice. Pulse until chopped.
  • Add in the mayo and blend on low until combined.
  • Taste and add salt if needed, pulsing to combine.
  • Use or store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

I don’t recommend dried basil because it has a different texture and flavor than fresh basil.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoonsCalories: 192kcalCarbohydrates: 0.4gProtein: 0.3gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 13gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 251mgPotassium: 13mgFiber: 0.04gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 97IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.1mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Nutrition information and cooking times are provided as a best estimate. Values may vary based upon ingredients and equipment.

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5 from 14 votes (7 ratings without comment)

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14 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    This basil mayo is delicious! I love how easy it was to make. Definitely keeping it on hand for sandwiches!

    1. Thanks Kim, I’m happy it was simple to whip up and that you love it enough to keep it on hand for regular use!

  2. 5 stars
    Absolutely perfect timing! This is going on my BLTs and chicken sandwiches all summer long. I may or may not have planted some basil today for this very reason.

    1. Jordan, yes it is great on BLT’s and so much more, I’m glad you will have fresh bail on hand to make it up at a moments notice!

  3. 5 stars
    This garlic basil mayonnaise turns out flavorful and delicious. You can use it on so many things. It is a great way to use up some of your summer basil. I love it on my BLT sandwich!

    1. Katie, great idea, I will be using it on a BLTA sandwich next. It is delicious on so many things!

  4. 5 stars
    I never thought of something like this but what a fabulous spread for sandwiches. With the fresh basil in season, I’ll be keeping this on hand all summer long!

  5. 5 stars
    This mayo was SO good! I’ve never made any kind of flavored mayo and was so surprised how easy and tasty this was. I’m making it again soon!

  6. 5 stars
    I wanted to try something a little extra on my tomato sandwich, and I am now RUINED!! I may never be able to eat a simple tomato and mayo sandwich again! The flavors are insane! I am making grilled chicken and tomato (I love tomatoes if you can’t tell…lol) sandwiches this weekend, JUST so I have a reason to make this mayo again!

    1. Jackie, wow thanks so much, I love that you’re RUINED for plain old mayo now, you have made my day!

  7. 5 stars
    Perfect, easy may recipe! I love adding this to my sandwiches! A great mayo really adds the perfect flavor!