Easy Garlic Basil Mayo
This page contains affiliate links. For more information please read my Disclosure Policy.
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.
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.
- 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.
FAQ’s
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.
You can use any kind of mayo you like. Regular, vegan, homemade – all will work very well with the basil and garlic.
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.
I would recommend using this within 2 weeks. If using homemade mayonnaise, use within 7 days.
Absolutely. While this recipe is specifically for a basil mayo, you could easily swap in dill, parsley, or cilantro for different, but delicious, results!
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.
- Ground Chicken Patties – It makes an amazing burger with homemade burger buns, tomato, spinach, and this mayo!
- Potato Salad
- Chicken Salad
- Grilled Chicken Sandwiches
- Turkey Sandwiches
- Grilled Fish
- Cast Iron Salmon
- Pasta Salad
- Dip for sides like grilled summer squash, crispy french fries, garlic roasted broccoli, oven roasted potatoes, and more!
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
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
Nutrition
Nutrition information and cooking times are provided as a best estimate. Values may vary based upon ingredients and equipment.
