How to make delicious aioli at home: Recipe plus simple video tutorial

These days it seems nearly impossible to visit a restaurant and not see aioli mentioned on the menu. The condiment, also affectionately referred to as “fancy mayo,” works well as a dip or a spread, and can be enjoyed with fries, chicken, seafood, vegetables and more.

The mayonnaise-based condiment is also highly customizable, so it can lend extra flavor to nearly any dish. It’s very easy to make at home with ingredients you already have in your fridge or pantry. The best part of making aioli at home is making it exactly how you like it, with the perfect amount of each ingredient, according to your palette.

Watch this video for three easy and delicious aioli recipes.

Aioli recipe

Whether you’re trying to spice up the last remnants of your mayonnaise jar or need to create a delicious dip or spread to enjoy with your meal, consider stepping up your mayo with these delicious combinations:

• Lemon and garlic. Combine mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice and microplaned or finely-minced garlic. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Stir and enjoy.

• Fresh herbs. Finely dice the herbs or put them in a blender to chop them. Add the herbs to the mayonnaise, season with salt and pepper and stir. Toss in chopped capers for even more flavor!

• Seasoning and spice blends. You can use seasonings and spices like curry powder or smoked paprika to make a flavorful aioli. Toast the spice over low heat in a dry skillet until fragrant. Stir it into your mayonnaise and enjoy!

What is aioli?

Merriam-Webster defines aioli as “mayonnaise flavored with garlic and sometimes other ingredients.” However, the condiment we have come to enjoy with our modern day meals has evolved over time. The original version of aioli is actually a combination of two ingredients: garlic and oil. That’s it!

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to make aioli: Recipe and video tutorial