Basil Aioli Recipe
Introduction
Basil aioli is a creamy, flavorful sauce that brightens up sandwiches, fries, and grilled dishes with fresh basil and garlic. This simple homemade aioli is quick to make and far more vibrant than store-bought versions.

Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup basil leaves, lightly packed (about 30 leaves)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: In the bowl of a food processor, combine the mayonnaise, basil leaves, garlic, lemon juice, and salt.
- Step 2: Cover and blend the mixture until smooth. If you don’t have a food processor, finely mince the basil leaves and garlic, then whisk them into the mayonnaise along with lemon juice and salt until fully combined.
- Step 3: Transfer the aioli to a container, cover, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 4: Serve as a condiment on sandwiches or as a dipping sauce for fries, chicken tenders, and more.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh basil leaves for the brightest flavor, and avoid bruising them to keep the aioli vibrant green.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of finely chopped jalapeño.
- If you want a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Make sure to mince garlic finely if you’re mixing by hand, so the texture is smooth and consistent.
Storage
Store basil aioli in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For the best flavor, use it within 1 to 2 days. Before serving, stir the aioli to recombine any separation that may occur. Reheating is not necessary—serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make basil aioli without a food processor?
Yes, simply finely mince the basil leaves and garlic, then whisk them into the mayonnaise with lemon juice and salt until fully blended.
How long does homemade basil aioli last?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, basil aioli will keep for about 7 days, but it tastes best when consumed within the first 1 to 2 days.
PrintBasil Aioli Recipe
This Basil Aioli is a creamy, flavorful condiment made by blending fresh basil leaves with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Perfect as a spread for sandwiches or a dipping sauce for fries and chicken tenders, it adds a fresh herbal twist to your meals with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup basil leaves, lightly packed (about 30 leaves)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients including mayonnaise, basil leaves, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt for easy processing.
- Blend Aioli: In the bowl of a food processor, combine mayonnaise, basil leaves, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and salt. Cover and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you don’t have a food processor, finely mince the basil and garlic, then whisk them together with the other ingredients in a bowl until fully incorporated.
- Chill to Meld Flavors: Transfer the basil aioli to a container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to blend beautifully and intensify.
- Serve: Use the basil aioli as a delicious condiment on sandwiches, burgers, or as a dipping sauce for fries, chicken tenders, and other snacks.
Notes
- Storage: Store the basil aioli in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For the freshest flavor, consume within 1-2 days.
- If you don’t have a food processor, finely mincing ingredients and whisking works well.
- This aioli can be customized by adding a pinch of black pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick.
Keywords: Basil aioli, basil mayonnaise, homemade aioli, basil sauce, garlic aioli, sandwich spread, dipping sauce

