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A classic Mediterranean pesto aioli that brings together fresh basil, garlic, and creamy mayonnaise for a versatile sauce. This recipe balances bright herb flavors with rich, smooth texture to create an elevated condiment perfect for countless dishes.
Essential Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Use full-fat, high-quality mayonnaise for the richest texture and clean flavor base.
- Fresh Basil Pesto: Homemade or premium store-bought pesto made with real Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Fresh Garlic: New-crop garlic cloves with tight, papery skin for optimal pungency.
- Lemon: Fresh citrus adds brightness and balances the rich ingredients.
- Sea Salt: Fine-grain sea salt dissolves easily and seasons evenly.
- Greek Yogurt: Optional ingredient for a lighter, tangier variation.
- Fresh Herbs: Extra basil leaves for garnish and fresh flavor.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground adds subtle warmth.
- Chili Flakes: Optional kick of heat for spice lovers.
Preparation Steps
- Initial Setup:
- Gather room temperature ingredients for smooth blending. Finely mince fresh garlic.
- Base Mixing:
- Start with mayonnaise, gradually incorporate pesto while stirring constantly.
- Texture Adjustment:
- Whisk until completely smooth, ensuring no pesto streaks remain.
- Final Touches:
- Season carefully with salt, adjust garlic and acid balance. Let rest before final taste test.
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Traditional Italian chefs often finish with a drizzle of premium extra virgin olive oil for enhanced flavor and sheen.
Storage Guidelines
Keep refrigerated in sealed glass container up to 5 days. Avoid freezing. Before use, let stand 15 minutes at room temperature and stir gently. Make small batches for best flavor and freshness.
Serving Ideas
Elevate sandwiches, panini, grilled vegetables and crusty bread. Finish grilled seafood or poultry. Mix into potato salad or use as artisanal pizza base. Creates memorable dipping sauce for fresh vegetables.
Recipe Variations
Experiment with sun-dried tomatoes for Mediterranean style. Add Calabrian chilies for heat. Incorporate roasted garlic or fresh herbs like oregano. Top with toasted pine nuts for texture contrast.
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Presentation Methods
Serve in small ramekins for appetizers. Create decorative sauce patterns on plates. Garnish with fresh basil, pine nuts and pepper. Apply evenly when spreading. Serve slightly chilled for ideal consistency.
This fusion sauce combines classic Italian and French culinary traditions. Proper technique and quality ingredients yield professional results suitable for casual meals and elegant dining. The versatile condiment enhances a wide range of dishes while maintaining authentic Mediterranean character.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade pesto?
- Absolutely, both store-bought and homemade pesto taste great in this recipe.
- → How long can I keep this sauce?
- Store it in a sealed container in your fridge for up to 5 days.
- → Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
- Yes, you can make it dairy-free by using pesto and mayo that don’t contain dairy.
- → What foods go well with this sauce?
- It tastes amazing as a spread on sandwiches, a dip for veggies, or a sauce for grilled meats or seafood.
- → Can I change how much garlic is in the recipe?
- Of course! Feel free to add more or less garlic depending on what you like.