First, prepare your garlic. If you’re roasting it in the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Slice the tops off the garlic bulbs and drizzle them with olive oil, then wrap them in foil. Place them directly on the oven rack for about 30 to 35 minutes or until the cloves are soft and golden brown.
Alternatively, if you’re using an air fryer, set it to 320°F (160°C) and place the wrapped garlic inside. Cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, checking for softness. Once done, cool the roasted garlic slightly.
Once your garlic is roasted and cooled, squeeze the cloves out of their skins into a bowl. You’re aiming for a smooth, spreadable consistency, so mash them with a fork until they reach that point.
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy. This blend is the foundation of your aioli, so make sure it's well combined.
Add the mashed garlic to the mayonnaise mixture. Stir until everything is fully incorporated. The blend of flavors will already start to create that delicious aioli.
Taste your aioli and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a tangier flavor, feel free to add more lemon juice. This is your creation, so make it how you like!
Transfer your Roasted Garlic Aioli to a clean jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for a few hours to let the flavors meld together. This step is essential to enhance the overall taste.
Before serving, give it a good stir. Serve with fresh veggies, crispy fries, or as a spread for sandwiches. Enjoy the compliments!
Leftovers? No problem! This aioli can be kept for up to a week in the fridge. Just remember to store it in a sealed container to maintain freshness.