Cranberry aioli is a vibrant twist on the classic garlic mayo that adds a burst of tangy sweetness to any dish. Perfect for the holiday season or whenever you want to brighten up your sandwiches, dips, or roasted veggies, this sauce combines the rich creaminess of aioli with the fresh zing of cranberries.
We love how easy it is to whip up this flavorful condiment using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. Its beautiful color and unique taste make it a standout addition to your recipe collection. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just craving something new, cranberry aioli brings a deliciously unexpected touch to your meals.
Ingredients
To make our vibrant Cranberry Aioli, we gather fresh and flavorful ingredients that combine to create the perfect balance of tangy sweetness and creamy richness. Every element matters for that distinctive taste and smooth texture.
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup, provides the creamy base and signature aioli texture
- Fresh cranberries – ¼ cup, finely chopped to deliver tartness and vibrant color
- Garlic cloves – 2 medium-sized, minced for robust flavor
- Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed to brighten and enhance the aioli
- Honey – 1 teaspoon, adds subtle sweetness balancing tart cranberry notes
- Salt – ½ teaspoon, to taste, enhances all the flavors
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground for mild heat and depth
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon, smooths the aioli and adds richness
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Details |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Use full-fat for best creaminess |
| Fresh cranberries | ¼ cup | Finely chopped |
| Garlic cloves | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon | |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | Extra virgin preferred |
Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting our Cranberry Aioli. The mayonnaise forms a velvety canvas, while the cranberries provide that signature tangy pop. Garlic brings the classic aioli bite, and lemon juice wakes up the entire blend. Honey balances tartness with sweetness, and the olive oil lends a luxurious mouthfeel we never want to skip. Salt and black pepper round out the flavor profile perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To craft the perfect Cranberry Aioli, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures we achieve a smooth texture and fully blend the vibrant flavors. Here is what we need:
- Food processor or blender: This is the key tool for combining the fresh cranberries and other ingredients into a creamy, uniform sauce. It efficiently breaks down the cranberries, integrating them into the aioli for that signature tangy sweetness.
- Measuring spoons and cups: Precision is crucial. We use these to measure out ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, honey, salt, and olive oil to maintain the perfect balance of flavors.
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl will hold the aioli as we taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Rubber spatula: For scraping down the sides of the food processor and transferring the aioli to the bowl without losing any of that bright, flavorful sauce.
- Knife and cutting board: To finely mince the garlic if not using pre-minced, ensuring the garlic flavor blends seamlessly.
- Citrus juicer (optional): To extract freshly squeezed lemon juice efficiently and with no seeds.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Food processor or blender | Blend cranberries and mix ingredients |
| Measuring spoons and cups | Measure ingredients accurately |
| Mixing bowl | For tasting and seasoning adjustments |
| Rubber spatula | Scrape and transfer the aioli |
| Knife and cutting board | Mince garlic finely |
| Citrus juicer (optional) | Extract fresh lemon juice without seeds |
Using these tools allows us to create a vibrant, velvety cranberry aioli that perfectly complements sandwiches, dips, and roasted veggies. Having everything prepared before we start mixing ensures a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience.
Prep Work
Before we dive into blending the rich flavors of our Cranberry Aioli, proper preparation is key. Let’s get every ingredient ready to ensure a smooth process and vibrant final taste.
Preparing Fresh Cranberries
Start by selecting fresh cranberries that are firm and bright red. Rinse 1 cup of fresh cranberries under cold water to remove any residue or dust. Pat them dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the aioli’s texture. For a smoother blend and enhanced flavor release, we gently pulse the cranberries in our food processor before adding the other ingredients. This method preserves their natural tartness and delivers a beautifully vibrant color.
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Select | Fresh cranberries | Firm, bright red, about 1 cup |
| Rinse | Under cold water | Remove dust and debris |
| Dry | Pat dry with towel | Prevent watery texture |
| Pulse (optional) | Briefly in food processor | Break down cranberries slightly |
Gathering Other Ingredients
To complement the fresh cranberries, gather all remaining ingredients precisely as follows. Accuracy here balances the tart cranberry notes with creamy, garlicky richness and subtle sweetness. Have on hand:
- ½ cup mayonnaise – ensures creamy base
- 1 large garlic clove – finely minced for bold flavor
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – brightens and lifts the aioli
- 1 teaspoon honey – adds subtle natural sweetness
- ¼ teaspoon salt – enhances all flavors
- ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – for mild spice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – adds smooth richness
Lining up these ingredients beforehand allows us to blend quickly and adjust seasoning precisely for a consistently perfect cranberry aioli every time.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | Use as-is |
| Garlic | 1 clove | Finely minced |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon | Use as-is |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | Use as-is |
| Black pepper | ⅛ teaspoon | Freshly ground |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Use as-is |
Making the Cranberry Aioli
Let’s walk through the process of creating our vibrant cranberry aioli. Following these steps ensures a perfectly balanced, creamy condiment with a tangy twist.
Blending the Base Ingredients
We start by combining the creamy foundation. In a food processor or blender, add:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Blend these ingredients until smooth and well incorporated. This base gives the aioli its rich texture and essential flavor layers.
Incorporating Cranberries
Next, we bring in the star ingredient. Add fresh cranberries, which should be:
- 1/2 cup, rinsed and patted dry
- Briefly pulsed in the processor for a smoother texture
Gradually add the cranberries to the base mixture. Pulse the food processor 3 to 4 times until the cranberries are evenly distributed but still retain a slight texture for visual appeal and flavor bursts.
Adjusting Seasoning
Finally, seasoning is key to perfecting our cranberry aioli. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and season with:
| Seasoning | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Enhances all flavors |
| Freshly ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds mild heat and depth |
We recommend tasting after each addition to dial in the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. If desired, add an extra splash of lemon juice or honey depending on your flavor preference.
With these steps, our cranberry aioli will have a smooth, velvety texture and a vibrant flavor profile that complements any dish beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Our Cranberry Aioli is a vibrant and versatile condiment that enhances a wide range of dishes. Here are some top serving ideas to enjoy its tangy sweetness and creamy texture:
- Sandwich Spread: Slather the aioli generously on turkey, chicken, or roast beef sandwiches. The tart cranberry flavor pairs especially well with savory meats and adds festive flair.
- Dip for Veggies: Serve it as a dip alongside fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper strips for a flavorful, healthy snack or appetizer.
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle or dollop the cranberry aioli over warm roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash to elevate your side dishes with a creamy, fruity kick.
- Burger Topping: Swap out traditional ketchup or mayo for this unique aioli on burgers. It adds a subtle sweetness that complements grilled meats perfectly.
- Seafood Companion: Pair it with grilled or baked fish, such as salmon or halibut, to add a tangy depth of flavor without overpowering the delicate seafood.
- Holiday Platter: Use the aioli as a spread or dip on holiday appetizer platters with crackers, cheeses, and cured meats, giving festive meals a colorful boost.
| Serving Idea | Suggested Pairings | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sandwich Spread | Turkey, chicken, roast beef | Adds moisture & tartness |
| Dip for Veggies | Carrots, celery, bell peppers | Healthy & colorful appetizer |
| Roasted Vegetables | Brussels sprouts, sweet potato | Creamy contrast to earthy flavors |
| Burger Topping | Beef, turkey burgers | Sweet & creamy alternative sauce |
| Seafood Companion | Salmon, halibut | Enhances delicate fish flavors |
| Holiday Platter | Crackers, cheeses, cured meats | Festive addition to snack trays |
We recommend serving the cranberry aioli chilled for the best flavor and texture. Always give it a good stir before use, as ingredients may settle slightly in the refrigerator. This aioli holds well for up to 5 days, making it perfect for prepping ahead for gatherings or meal prepping.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our cranberry aioli fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. After preparing, transfer the aioli into an airtight container to prevent exposure to air, which can dull its vibrant taste and texture.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store the aioli in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Chilling enhances its tangy and creamy profile while preserving freshness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight Container | Up to 5 days | Ensure container seals well to maintain flavor |
| Serving Temperature | Serve chilled | Remove from fridge 10 minutes before use for optimal consistency |
Make-Ahead Tips
We can prepare the cranberry aioli up to three days in advance without sacrificing quality. This makes it a perfect condiment for parties or meal prep.
- Blend the aioli completely as outlined in the recipe.
- Store immediately in an airtight container.
- Stir gently before serving if separated.
Pro Tip: If the aioli thickens too much after refrigeration, stir in a teaspoon of olive oil or lemon juice to restore its creamy texture.
By following these tips, we’ll always have a vibrant and delicious cranberry aioli ready to enhance our meals.
Conclusion
Cranberry aioli brings a fresh twist to any dish with its perfect blend of tangy and creamy flavors. Its vibrant color and easy preparation make it a standout addition to our kitchen repertoire. Whether for everyday meals or special occasions, this versatile sauce adds a delicious pop that’s sure to impress.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can whip up this flavorful condiment in no time. Keeping it on hand means elevating sandwiches, dips, and roasted veggies effortlessly. Let’s enjoy the bright, festive touch cranberry aioli brings to our table all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cranberry aioli?
Cranberry aioli is a tangy and slightly sweet variation of traditional garlic mayo, made by blending mayonnaise with fresh cranberries, garlic, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, and seasonings. It adds vibrant flavor and color to various dishes.
How do I make cranberry aioli?
Blend mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, honey, and olive oil until smooth. Pulse in fresh cranberries to keep some texture, then season with salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
What dishes pair well with cranberry aioli?
Cranberry aioli complements sandwiches, roasted vegetables, seafood, burgers, fresh veggie dips, and holiday platters. It’s versatile and adds a festive twist to many meals.
Can I prepare cranberry aioli ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cranberry aioli up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the coldest part of the fridge to keep it fresh and flavorful.
How do I store cranberry aioli?
Keep cranberry aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator, preferably in the coldest section. It stays fresh for up to five days.
What should I do if my cranberry aioli thickens after refrigeration?
If it thickens, stir in a teaspoon of olive oil or lemon juice to restore its creamy texture before serving.
What ingredients are essential for cranberry aioli?
The main ingredients are mayonnaise, fresh cranberries, minced garlic, lemon juice, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper for a balanced tangy and creamy flavor.
Do I need special equipment to make cranberry aioli?
A food processor or blender is recommended for smooth blending. Other helpful tools include measuring spoons, a mixing bowl, a rubber spatula, a knife, and a citrus juicer (optional).