Garlic Mayo Creamy Spread (Printable)

Smooth garlic and mayo mix with lemon juice and herbs, ideal as a dip or spread.

# Ingredient List:

→ Base

01 - 1 cup full-fat mayonnaise

→ Aromatics

02 - 2 to 3 garlic cloves, finely minced or pressed

→ Acidity

03 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

→ Seasoning

04 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
05 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt, or to taste
06 - 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Optional

07 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped

# Directions:

01 - In a medium bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth.
02 - Add salt and black pepper to taste, stirring thoroughly.
03 - If desired, fold in chopped parsley or chives for added freshness.
04 - Cover and refrigerate the mixture for a minimum of 30 minutes to develop flavors.
05 - Present chilled as a dip, spread, or accompaniment for grilled items.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It's impossibly quick to make and tastes like you spent hours perfecting it, which is the best kind of kitchen magic
  • This sauce transforms ordinary foods into restaurant-quality dishes—fries, grilled chicken, seafood, even a simple sandwich becomes something memorable
  • Once you taste homemade garlic mayo, the jarred versions will feel like a distant memory
02 -
  • The mincing of your garlic truly matters—large chunks will give you harsh, unpleasant bursts of garlic flavor, while properly minced or pressed garlic creates an even, pleasant garlicky presence throughout
  • Never skip the resting time in the refrigerator; this is when the magic happens and the flavors become cohesive and balanced rather than tasting like you just mixed things together
03 -
  • If you prefer milder garlic, use roasted garlic cloves instead of raw—they're naturally sweeter and more mellow, and they blend into the sauce beautifully without any sharp edges
  • For the smoothest texture, make sure your mayo and all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing, and use a whisk rather than a spoon for the most even blending