Smooth and flavorful, Basil Aioli is a quick way to add bold, fresh flavor to sandwiches, burgers, and roasted vegetables. Made with just five simple ingredients and no extra steps, this homemade aioli blends together in minutes and holds up well in the refrigerator for use throughout the week.

A glass bowl filled with creamy green sauce, garnished with fresh basil leaves on top. The sauce has a smooth texture and specks of herbs throughout, set on a light surface.

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Easy Basil Aioli Recipe

Fresh basil gives the aioli its bright color and clean flavor. The garlic and lemon bring balance, keeping the mayo base from feeling too heavy. Once blended, the creamy texture stays thick and spreadable, making it easy to use straight from the fridge.

Using mayonnaise as the base keeps the process simple—no need to emulsify egg yolks for homemade mayonnaise or worry about the mixture breaking. Everything blends quickly in the food processor, and the result is consistently smooth without extra effort. It’s an easy way to get the flavor of traditional aioli recipes without all the fuss.

As a home cook who has been creating plant-based and vegetarian meals for over 13 years, I focus on recipes that are simple, consistent, and useful across a variety of dishes. This lemon basil aioli uses ingredients that are easy to keep on hand and comes together with fresh basil flavor in one step with the help of a food processor.

My favorite way to use this fancy mayonnaise is for adding a fresh, savory layer to BLTA sandwiches. Spread it onto toasted bread, then layer with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and a few slices of smoky Brown Sugar Tempeh Bacon. The basil and lemon complement the crisp edges of the tempeh and the creaminess of the avocado, bringing everything together with just the right amount of flavor. If you haven’t tried a plant-based BLTA with basil aioli yet, what are you waiting for?

This is a small batch recipe that works well for everyday use. It’s easy to double for larger servings or when prepping ahead for entertaining. The flavor develops more fully after a short rest in the refrigerator, but it can also be used right away.

A bowl of creamy, herbed dressing sits on a white surface. The dressing has a speckled appearance, likely from herbs. Fresh green basil leaves are in the background, partially visible around the bowl.

Ingredients for Basil Aioli

Mayonnaise – Forms the base of the aioli. Use a traditional or vegan mayonnaise with a smooth, mild flavor.
Fresh Basil – Chopped before blending for even texture and better distribution. Use packed leaves with stems removed for the best result.
Fresh Garlic – Minced or finely grated garlic cloves provide a sharp, savory note that cuts through the richness of the mayo.
Lemon Juice and Lemon Zest – A medium-sized lemon adds bright citrus flavor and acidity that balances the creamy base.

How to Make Basil Aioli

STEP ONE: Blend the basil and mayo. Add the chopped basil and mayonnaise to a food processor. Process for about 30 seconds, or until the basil is fully blended and the mixture is smooth and green throughout.

STEP TWO: Add the remaining ingredients. Add the garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the food processor. Pulse again until fully combined and evenly blended.

STEP THREE: Serve or store. Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.

Tips for Best Results

Use fresh basil leaves only—avoid dried basil for this recipe.
Chop the basil before blending to prevent long strands in the final aioli sauce.
A small food processor or mini chopper works best for this quantity.
Let the aioli sit in the fridge for an hour before serving if time allows—this helps the flavors develop.

Serving Suggestions

Spread on sandwiches, wraps, or veggie burgers.
Serve as a dipping sauce for french fries and tater tots, roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables.
Pair with fried green tomatoes or zucchini fritters.

A close-up of a spoonful of creamy cilantro lime dressing held above a glass bowl filled with the same dressing, featuring a smooth texture and speckled with green herbs.

Storage

Store basil aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before using if the mixture begins to separate. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture will not hold once thawed.

More Fresh Basil Recipes You’ll Love

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A bowl of basil aioli garnished with fresh basil leaves. A spoonful of the creamy, speckled sauce is held above the bowl. Text on the image reads Basil Aioli.

Basil Aioli Recipe

Smooth and flavorful basil aioli made with mayonnaise, fresh basil, garlic, and lemon. Easy to blend and ready in minutes for sandwiches, vegetables, and more.

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Course: Condiment

Cuisine: American, French, Mediterranean

Keyword: condiments, herbs, quick and easy, sauce

Prep Time: 10

Total Time: 10

Servings:

Calories: 257kcal

Author: Holly Gray

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
2/3 cup fresh basil leaves chopped
2 teaspoons garlic minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest chopped

Instructions

Add the chopped basil and mayonnaise to a food processor. Process for about 30 seconds, or until the basil is fully blended and the mixture is smooth and green throughout.
Add the garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the food processor. Pulse again until fully combined and evenly blended.
Use immediately, or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.

Nutrition

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