Garlic sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking to enhance your grilled meats, vegetables, or salads, this garlic sauce recipe will not disappoint. With its rich and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to create this delicious sauce!
Ingredients
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This garlic sauce recipe makes approximately 1 cup of sauce, perfect for 4 servings. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Based on a serving size of ¼ cup (for 1 person), the nutritional value is approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 2g
– Protein: 1g
– Sodium: 200mg
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic with mayonnaise.
3. Add the lemon juice and Dijon mustard to the bowl.
4. Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
5. Drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the sauce.
6. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
7. If desired, fold in the chopped parsley for added flavor.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice if needed.
9. Transfer the garlic sauce to a serving dish or airtight container.
10. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Additionally, for a dairy-free option, use vegan mayonnaise or avocado.
Serving and Pairings
This garlic sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and fresh salads. It also makes an excellent dip for pita bread or fresh veggies.
Storage and Reheating
Store the garlic sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can be served cold, and there’s no need to reheat. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing can lead to a runny sauce.
- Not letting the sauce chill can result in less flavor.
- Using too much garlic can overpower the sauce.
- Skipping the acid (lemon juice) may dull the flavor.
- Not tasting your sauce before serving can lead to blandness.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Experiment with adding herbs like dill or basil for variety.
- Adjust the thickness by adding a little water if necessary.
- Consider adding a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I make garlic sauce in advance?
Yes, garlic sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This allows the flavors to develop even further.
Is garlic sauce vegan?
Traditional garlic sauce is not vegan due to the mayonnaise. However, you can easily make it vegan by using vegan mayonnaise or yogurt.
How do I make garlic sauce spicier?
To add heat, try incorporating cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the recipe. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
Can I use roasted garlic instead?
Absolutely! Roasted garlic will give the sauce a sweeter and more mellow flavor. Just mash the roasted cloves before mixing them in.
What dishes go well with garlic sauce?
Garlic sauce is great with grilled meats, seafood, roasted vegetables, and as a dip for bread or chips. It’s also a fantastic addition to wraps and sandwiches.
Conclusion
This garlic sauce recipe is not only easy to prepare but also adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its creamy texture and zesty taste, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it fresh or as a complement to your favorite dishes!
Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
- 4 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic with mayonnaise.
- Add the lemon juice and Dijon mustard to the bowl.
- Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the sauce.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- If desired, fold in the chopped parsley for added flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lemon juice if needed.
- Transfer the garlic sauce to a serving dish or airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
