If you’re craving a burst of sun-kissed flavor with a creamy, garlicky kick, this Sun Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant sauce that’s perfect for elevating sandwiches, dipping crispy fries, or adding a zesty touch to grilled veggies. The rich umami of sun dried tomatoes mingles effortlessly with fresh basil and tangy lemon, making this aioli a delightfully versatile condiment you’ll want to keep on hand at all times.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of fresh, robust ingredients, this aioli comes together quickly but packs a powerful flavor punch. Each component plays a perfect role—the sun dried tomatoes bring depth and sweetness, garlic offers its classic aromatic warmth, lemon juice adds brightness, basil supplies fresh herbaceous notes, and creamy mayonnaise ties it all together with smooth richness.
- ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes: Adds intense, concentrated tomato flavor and beautiful color.
- 1 small garlic clove (peeled): Provides a mild, aromatic garlic taste without overpowering the aioli.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Lends a fresh, zesty brightness that balances richness.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base that turns this into a luscious, spreadable sauce.
- 3-4 large basil leaves: Offers a fragrant, herbal lift that complements the tomato perfectly.
How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by peeling your garlic clove and measuring out your sun dried tomatoes and other ingredients. Having everything ready to go makes the blending process smooth and quick.
Step 2: Blend Everything Together
Place the sun dried tomatoes, garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and basil leaves into a small food processor or use an immersion blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure everything is incorporated evenly.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Give your aioli a quick taste test. If you want a bit more acidity, add a splash more lemon juice. For extra garlicky goodness, toss in a little more garlic. This step allows you to customize your Sun Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe exactly to your liking.
How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your aioli presentation by garnishing with a few chopped fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan. A light drizzle of olive oil adds a lovely glossy finish and an extra layer of richness.
Side Dishes
This aioli is a star alongside grilled chicken, crispy roasted potatoes, or fresh vegetable crudités. It also makes a fantastic sandwich spread or a dip for crunchy breadsticks, inviting guests to savor every bite with that beautiful burst of sun dried tomato flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Try swirling your Sun Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe onto a serving platter as a base for grilled seafood or roast veggies. Or serve it in small ramekins alongside Mediterranean-style tapas. Its vibrant color and luscious texture make any dish pop visually and gastronomically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy its bright tang and creamy texture long after making it.
Freezing
While freezing isn’t ideal for this aioli—since the texture can change upon thawing—it’s possible if needed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator and whisk gently before serving to help re-emulsify the sauce.
Reheating
Because this is a cold sauce, reheating is not necessary or recommended. Instead, serve chilled or at room temperature to fully appreciate the fresh, lively flavors.
FAQs
Can I use oil-packed sun dried tomatoes for this aioli?
Absolutely! Oil-packed sun dried tomatoes work beautifully and simply reduce the need for additional blending liquid. Just drain them lightly before adding to keep the aioli from becoming too oily.
Is it possible to make this aioli vegan?
Yes, by swapping out mayonnaise for a vegan version made from plant-based ingredients, you can easily enjoy a vegan-friendly Sun Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe without compromising on taste or creaminess.
How long does this aioli last in the fridge?
Your aioli will stay fresh and delicious for about 4 days when kept in an airtight container in the fridge. Always give it a sniff and a quick taste before serving to ensure it’s at its best.
Can I add spice to this aioli?
Definitely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of smoked paprika, or a few drops of hot sauce to give your sun dried tomato aioli an extra kick tailored to your taste buds.
What dishes pair best with this aioli?
This aioli shines alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, as a dip for fries, or as a spread for sandwiches and burgers that need a flavorful lift.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about making a sauce from scratch that elevates everyday meals to something special, and this Sun Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe does exactly that with effortless charm. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, I promise this aioli will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Go ahead, give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
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Sun Dried Tomato Aioli Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sun Dried Tomato Aioli is a quick and flavorful sauce, perfect for adding a rich, tangy twist to sandwiches, grilled vegetables, or as a dip. Made with sun dried tomatoes, fresh garlic, lemon juice, mayonnaise, and basil, it blends into a smooth, creamy condiment in just minutes.
Ingredients
Sun Dried Tomato Aioli
- ¼ cup sun dried tomatoes
- 1 small garlic clove, peeled
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3–4 large basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather ¼ cup of sun dried tomatoes, peel one small garlic clove, measure 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, ½ cup of mayonnaise, and pick 3-4 large fresh basil leaves.
- Blend Ingredients: Place all ingredients into a small food processor or use an immersion blender. Blend or process until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy aioli.
- Serve or Store: Use immediately as a dip or spread, or transfer into an airtight container and refrigerate until needed.
Notes
- For a smoother aioli, soak the sun dried tomatoes in warm water for 10 minutes before blending.
- Adjust garlic to taste for a milder or stronger flavor.
- This aioli can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Try adding a pinch of salt or pepper to enhance flavors if desired.
- Use as a dip for vegetables, a sandwich spread, or a sauce for grilled meats and seafood.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
