Basil Mayonnaise
A vibrant, herbaceous mayonnaise infused with fresh basil, garlic, and lemon, perfect as a dip for raw vegetables or a flavorful sandwich spread. Bright and versatile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend lemon, mayonnaise, parsley, garlic, fresh basil, and salt in a blender until fine.
- Add this mixture to the mayonnaise and stir well to combine.
- Serve as a dip for raw vegetables or use as a spread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, use fresh lemon juice and zest instead of bottled lemon juice. If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute with spinach or arugula for a different twist. Adjust the garlic according to your taste; roasting it beforehand can mellow its sharpness. Consider incorporating a pinch of smoked paprika for added depth, which can complement dishes like Lamb On The Grill.
Serving Suggestions
This basil mayonnaise makes a fantastic dip for raw vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers. It also works beautifully as a spread on sandwiches or wraps, especially with Mediterranean recipes that include grilled vegetables or chicken. For a delightful twist, try it as a topping for fish tacos or on a burger.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover basil mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will meld and intensify as it sits. If it thickens too much, you can whisk in a bit of water or additional lemon juice to achieve your desired consistency before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basil Mayonnaise contains roughly 570 calories, with 8g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (109% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 954mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this basil mayonnaise vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute the traditional mayonnaise with a vegan mayonnaise alternative, which is widely available at most grocery stores. This will keep the recipe plant-based while maintaining the creamy texture and flavor you're looking for.
How can I adjust the flavor of the mayonnaise?
You can customize this recipe by adding ingredients like Dijon mustard for tang, or a splash of hot sauce for heat. Fresh herbs such as dill or cilantro can also be incorporated for an interesting twist, depending on your preference and what you have on hand.
Is it possible to use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. However, for this recipe, fresh basil is highly recommended to achieve that vibrant taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).