Name: Easy Homemade Aioli (5 Minutes, 5 Ingredients!)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed; 1 cup neutral oil (such as grapeseed or vegetable oil); 1 garlic clove, finely grated or minced; Kosher salt, to taste; Optional: 1-2 tablespoons warm water (to thin out if needed)

Why You’ll Love Easy Homemade Aioli (5 Minutes, 5 Ingredients!) Recipe

Aioli brings bold garlic flavor and silky texture to your meals with minimal effort. It’s versatile enough to pair with vegetables, seafood, burgers, or as a sandwich spread, and it comes together in about 5 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 large egg
4 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
½ cup canola oil or another light, neutral oil
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
½ tsp Kosher salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Optional: 2 Tbsp chopped fresh herbs, such as tarragon

Directions

In a food processor or blender, combine the egg, chopped garlic, lemon juice, and the neutral oil.
Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and thick.
Transfer to a mixing bowl and, while whisking continuously, very slowly stream in the extra virgin olive oil. Adding the oil gradually helps the emulsion form.
Once all the oil is incorporated and the mixture is creamy, season with salt and pepper.
If desired, stir in fresh herbs. Serve immediately or chill before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves about 8.
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Total time: ~5 minutes

Variations

• Herb aioli: Stir in chopped basil, parsley, or dill
• Spicy aioli: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce
• Smoky aioli: Mix in smoked paprika or chipotle powder
• Truffle aioli: Swirl in a dash of truffle oil at the end

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Emulsified sauces like aioli are not suitable for reheating; serve cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

What’s the difference between aioli and mayonnaise?

Aioli is similar to mayonnaise but traditionally has a stronger garlic flavor and often uses olive oil.

Can I make aioli without a blender or food processor?

Yes — you can whisk by hand, but it takes more time and effort to emulsify.

Why did my aioli separate or break?

If oil is added too quickly, the emulsion can fail. Add oil slowly while whisking.

Can I use roasted garlic instead of fresh?

Yes — roasted garlic gives a milder, sweeter flavor.

Is raw egg safe in aioli?

Raw egg can carry a small risk of salmonella. Use pasteurized eggs if concerned.

How long does homemade aioli last?

Refrigerated aioli lasts about 3–4 days.

Can I freeze aioli?

Freezing is not recommended; the emulsion may break when thawed.

What dishes pair well with aioli?

Aioli is great with fries, grilled meats, seafood, sandwiches, and veggies.

Can I make aioli without egg?

Traditional Mediterranean aioli can be made without egg, using just garlic, oil, and salt, but it is harder to emulsify without egg.

Can I adjust the garlic intensity?

Yes — use more garlic for a bolder flavor or less for a milder sauce.

Conclusion

This easy homemade aioli is a simple yet flavorful sauce that elevates everyday dishes. With a few ingredients and about five minutes of prep, you’ll have a creamy, garlicky condiment that’s far superior to store‑bought. Enjoy it with your favorite foods!