Lemon-Basil Mayonnaise

Prep: 10 min Serves: 2 Cuisine: American

A vibrant, flavorful mayonnaise infused with fresh basil, lemon zest, and garlic, perfect for seafood or sandwiches, offering a zesty and aromatic twist.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups mayonnaise
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • 1/2 cup firmly packed fresh basil leaves
  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon rind

Instructions

  1. Process mayonnaise and crushed garlic clove in a blender or food processor until smooth.
  2. Add basil leaves and lemon rind; pulse 3 or 4 times until basil is finely chopped.
  3. Transfer to a covered container and store in the refrigerator up to 1 week.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise. If fresh basil is unavailable, you can use dried basil, but reduce the amount since dried herbs are more potent. This lemon-basil mayonnaise can also be made vegan by substituting the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative, perfect for those exploring vegan recipes.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon-basil mayonnaise is a delightful spread for sandwiches or burgers, adding a fresh twist to your favorite dishes. It pairs beautifully with Chilled Melon Balls(Appetizer) or as a dip for veggies. Use it as a dressing for salads or drizzle it over grilled chicken or fish for a burst of flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store the lemon-basil mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to one week. Before using leftovers, give it a good stir as the ingredients may separate over time. Do not freeze the mayonnaise, as it may change in texture when thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon-Basil Mayonnaise contains roughly 670 calories, with 13g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), iron (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 584mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).

670 kcal 34% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.5g 25% DV
Total Fat 57.2g 73% DV
Carbs 31.9g 12% DV
Fiber 5.2g 18% DV
Sugar 4.7g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 584.2mg 25% DV
Potassium 776.4mg 17% DV
Cholesterol 16.6mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 640.3mcg 71% DV
Vitamin C 43.6mg 48% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 446mg 34% DV
Iron 9.5mg 53% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Egg

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 use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried basil if fresh basil is not available. However, dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about one-third of the amount called for in the recipe. This will ensure your mayonnaise retains the intended flavor without being overpowering.

How long does this mayonnaise last in the fridge?

The lemon-basil mayonnaise can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent contamination from other foods.

What can I serve with lemon-basil mayonnaise?

Lemon-basil mayonnaise is versatile and pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, and sandwiches. It also works as a dip for fresh vegetables or chips, making it a great addition to your appetizer spread, like alongside Corn-Okra-Tomato Medley.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →