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There’s something undeniably appealing about a homemade dip that elevates any meal, and my Garlic Horseradish Aioli does just the trick! After a long week of takeout boxes, I found myself craving something rich in flavor yet quick and easy to prepare. While rummaging through my kitchen, I rediscovered a head of garlic and a little jar of horseradish—ingredients that instantly sparked my culinary inspiration.

The moment the garlic roasts, it releases a warm, buttery aroma that fills the kitchen with comfort. Blending the sweet, caramelized notes with the zesty kick of horseradish creates a dip that’s both sophisticated and crowd-pleasing. Whether you slather it on sandwiches, serve it alongside fresh veggies, or use it as a bold sauce for grilled meats, this aioli is the perfect way to reclaim flavor in your meals. Trust me, your dinner companions will be asking for seconds! Ready to spice things up? Let’s dive into this simple yet sensational recipe!

Why Love Garlic Horseradish Aioli?

Bold flavor: This Garlic Horseradish Aioli boasts a unique combination of roasted garlic and tangy horseradish that will awaken your taste buds.

Easy to make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this delight in no time.

Versatile dip: Perfect for sandwiches, fresh veggies, or grilled meats, it elevates any dish effortlessly.

Crowd-pleaser: Serve it at gatherings and watch it disappear as friends and family rave about the rich, zesty flavors.

Make-ahead option: With a bit of chilling time, you can prepare it in advance, saving you effort on busy days.

Ditch the takeout and enjoy a homemade touch with this stunning aioli!

Garlic Horseradish Aioli Ingredients

• Let’s gather everything you need for this flavorful dip!

For the Aioli Base

1 head of garlic – roasting this adds a sweet, buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with horseradish.
1 tablespoon olive oil – helps the garlic roast evenly and adds richness to the aioli.
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish – provides a zesty kick that’s essential for the Garlic Horseradish Aioli.
½ cup mayonnaise – creates a creamy base that balances the bold flavors.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – brightens the dish and enhances all the flavors.
1 teaspoon dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang and depth to the aioli.
1 ½ tablespoons chopped parsley – brings freshness and a pop of color to your dish.
¾ teaspoon kosher salt – accentuates the flavors and brings everything together.
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – adds warmth and enhances the overall taste.

For Garnishing

½ tablespoon chopped parsley – use this to sprinkle on top for an appealing finish!

How to Make Garlic Horseradish Aioli

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This temperature ensures the garlic roasts to perfection, enhancing its sweetness and making it buttery soft.
Trim the top quarter of the garlic head, saving the cut-off cloves for later use. This step allows the garlic to release its magical aroma while roasting.
Wrap the garlic in aluminum foil, drizzling it with olive oil and sprinkling with ¼ teaspoon of salt. Tightly secure the foil to trap the warmth inside.
Roast the garlic for 45-60 minutes until it’s golden and tender. To check, unwrap the foil and pierce it with a skewer. It should slide in effortlessly—let it cool slightly afterward.
Squeeze the roasted garlic cloves into a medium bowl and add the prepared horseradish. Use a fork to mash them together until creamy, creating a deliciously zesty base.
Mix in the mayonnaise, lemon juice, dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of parsley, ½ teaspoon salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well blended, ensuring a rich and flavorful aioli.
Transfer the aioli to a serving bowl and quickly garnish with the remaining ½ tablespoon of parsley for an inviting touch.
Chill your creation for 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors mingle beautifully. This step also enhances the creaminess!

Optional: Serve with crunchy veggies or crispy fries for a delightful pairing.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Horseradish Aioli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can roast the garlic and prepare the aioli up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen while saving you precious time on busy weeknights. Simply roast the garlic as directed, let it cool, and then squeeze the softened cloves into a bowl with the horseradish—mix in the remaining ingredients and store the aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the aioli’s rich flavor and creamy texture, be sure to refrigerate it promptly and consume it within that time frame. When you’re ready to serve, simply give it a good stir and enjoy the bold, delicious dip that complements any dish!

What to Serve with Garlic Horseradish Aioli?

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement the zesty, creamy goodness of your homemade dip.

Crispy Roasted Potatoes: The golden, crunchy exterior and fluffy interior bring a satisfying contrast to the smooth aioli.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Tender chicken infused with herbs pairs perfectly, allowing the aioli to shine as a flavorful sauce.
Fresh Veggie Platter: Crisp, colorful veggies like carrots, cucumber, and bell peppers create a refreshing balance, making them irresistible to dip.
Seafood Tacos: Substitute standard sauces with aioli to add a sophisticated creamy touch that enhances the taco experience.
Steak Sandwiches: A hearty steak layered with garlic horseradish aioli becomes an unforgettable, mouthwatering combination.
Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of the fries contrasts beautifully with the spicy tang of the aioli, creating a match made in culinary heaven.
Charcuterie Board: Drizzle the aioli alongside cured meats and cheeses for an elegant appetizer that invites flavor exploration.
Spinach Salad: Toss with fresh greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette, then serve aioli on the side for a luxurious treat.
Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc: A chilled glass of either white wine enhances the flavors of both the aioli and your meal, creating a delightful dining experience.

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Horseradish Aioli

Fridge: Store your Garlic Horseradish Aioli in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps it fresh and flavorful, perfect for your sandwich or veggie dips.
Freezer: If you need extra time, freeze the aioli in small portions using ice cube trays. It can last up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this zesty flavor when needed.
Thawing: To use frozen portions, simply transfer them to the fridge to thaw overnight or leave them out at room temperature for a few hours until softened.
Reheating: If you prefer it warm, gently reheat the aioli in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, just until it’s warm but not too hot to maintain its creamy texture.

Garlic Horseradish Aioli Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with this delicious aioli! Each variation offers a unique twist to elevate your dipping experience.

Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce for an extra zing that will awaken your senses!
Heat lovers will delight in the added warmth, transforming this aioli into a fiery delight perfect for grilled meats.
Herbed Delight: Substitute parsley with fresh dill or thyme for a fragrant herbaceous twist.
Each herb imparts a different aroma and flavor, giving your aioli a character of its own!
Greek-Style: Incorporate a tablespoon of crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy addition.
This creates a Mediterranean flair, adding richness that pairs beautifully with fresh veggies or pita bread.
Vegan Option: Replace mayonnaise with aquafaba or a vegan mayo to create a delightful plant-based dip.
This allows everyone to enjoy that creamy goodness while sticking to their dietary preferences!
Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one lemon or orange for a lively burst of citrus flavor.
The zest brightens the aioli, making it an invigorating dip perfect for seafood or grilled chicken!
Sweet & Savory: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness to balance the garlic’s bite.
This flavor combination can surprise your palate, making it a delightful pairing with spicy dishes.
Roasted Red Pepper: Blend in some roasted red peppers for a smoky, vibrant twist.
This transforms your aioli into a beautiful, colorful spread that is perfect for sandwiches or as a dip!
Miso Fusion: Stir in a teaspoon of white miso paste for an umami boost that deepens the flavor profile.
The result is a wonderfully complex aioli that adds sophistication to any dish!

Expert Tips for Garlic Horseradish Aioli

Roast Perfectly: Ensure your garlic is fully roasted by piercing it with a skewer. It should be tender and golden for the best flavor.
Balance the Flavors: Adjust the amount of horseradish to your taste. Start with 2 tablespoons, then add more if you prefer extra heat in your Garlic Horseradish Aioli.
Creamy Texture: For a smoother consistency, blend the aioli in a food processor instead of mashing by hand, ensuring no lumps remain.
Chill Time: Don’t skip the 30-minute chilling period! It allows the flavors to meld, making your aioli even more delicious when served.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh parsley and high-quality mayonnaise for the best results; they elevate the overall taste of your aioli.

Garlic Horseradish Aioli Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to choose garlic for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting garlic, look for heads that are firm to the touch with no dark spots or soft areas. The skin should be dry, and if you can see green sprouts, it’s best to avoid them, as they can have a bitter flavor.

How long can I store Garlic Horseradish Aioli in the fridge?
You can store your aioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure it’s tightly sealed to maintain its freshness—perfect for thoughtful meal prepping or last-minute dip needs!

Can I freeze Garlic Horseradish Aioli?
Yes, you can! For freezing, pour the aioli into ice cube trays for easy portioning. Once frozen, transfer the cubes into a freezer-safe bag, and it will last up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy your zesty flavor whenever the craving strikes!

What if my garlic turns bitter during roasting?
To avoid bitterness, ensure that you roast your garlic at a moderate temperature—400°F is perfect. If your garlic starts to burn or has a dark roasted color, it may develop off-flavors. Keep an eye on it while roasting; it should be tender and golden.

Is this aioli safe for people with allergies?
It contains common allergens, like eggs from the mayonnaise—so keep that in mind! If you’re making this for someone with dietary restrictions, you can use an egg-free mayonnaise alternative. Always check labels for any hidden allergens to ensure safety.

What dishes pair best with Garlic Horseradish Aioli?
This bright and zesty aioli is fantastic with grilled meats, fresh vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches. Pair it with crispy fries or serve as a dip at your next gathering for a delightful experience that’s sure to impress!