Zesty Cilantro Lime Aioli

Name: Zesty Cilantro Lime Aioli
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice; 1 tablespoon lime zest; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Recipes

I love making this zesty cilantro lime aioli because it adds a burst of flavor to any dish. With just a few ingredients, I can transform ordinary meals into something extraordinary. The bright notes of lime combined with the freshness of cilantro create a creamy sauce that’s perfect for dipping or drizzling. Whether I’m serving it with grilled veggies or spreading it on sandwiches, this aioli never fails to impress. It’s an easy recipe that I turn to time and again for a quick flavor boost!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:42:27.637Z

When I first experimented with aioli, I knew I wanted something fresh and lively. I settled on this cilantro lime version, and it quickly became a family favorite. The citrusy zing from the lime perfectly complements the earthy cilantro, adding depth to the creaminess of the aioli. I also discovered that letting it sit for about 30 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully!

One of my favorite uses for this aioli is as a dressing for grilled fish tacos. It elevates the dish with its brightness, making each bite more enjoyable. I often prepare a batch in advance and keep it in the fridge to pair with everything from salads to roasted potatoes, making meal prep a breeze!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright and zesty flavors that elevate any dish
Creamy texture with a refreshing kick
Versatile condiment perfect for various uses

      

Ingredient Insights

The star of this zesty cilantro lime aioli is undoubtedly the fresh cilantro. Its vibrant color and distinct flavor play a crucial role in elevating the dish from a standard aioli to a culinary delight. When choosing cilantro, look for bright green leaves without any yellowing or wilting. Fresh cilantro can lose its flavor quickly, so if you’re making this in advance, I recommend chopping the cilantro no more than a few hours ahead to keep its zing intact.

Lime juice and zest provide the essential tang in this recipe. When juicing your lime, opt for room temperature limes, as they yield more juice than chilled ones. The zest is important too—make sure to only grate the bright green outer layer, avoiding the bitter white pith underneath. I love using a microplane for this as it gives a fine zest that incorporates beautifully into the creamy mayonnaise, enhancing the overall flavor.

Mixing and Texturing Tips

When mixing the ingredients together, it’s important to do so gently to maintain a creamy texture. You want to mix until the aioli is fully blended but stop when it reaches a smooth and glossy consistency—if you overmix, you could break the emulsion. If you prefer a chunkier aioli, I suggest folding in the cilantro and garlic last to leave some pieces intact, adding an appealing texture and burst of flavor with every bite.

To ensure even seasoning, add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go. The balance of flavors is key, and adjusting is much easier when you add a little at a time. I find that about a quarter teaspoon of salt and a few cracks of black pepper usually do the trick, but feel free to adjust according to your taste. Remember that the flavors will intensify as the aioli chills, so resist the temptation to go overboard on the seasoning early on.

Ingredients for Zesty Cilantro Lime Aioli

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon lime zest
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix well and enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients. Chop the cilantro, mince the garlic, and zest and juice the lime.

Mix Everything Together

In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, and minced garlic. Mix until well combined.

Season and Chill

Add salt and pepper to taste. For best flavor, cover the aioli and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serve with your favorite dishes!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeño to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This zesty cilantro lime aioli shines as a dip for fresh vegetables or crispy tortilla chips, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings. I particularly like serving it alongside grilled shrimp or fish for a delightful contrast of flavors. You can even elevate simple roasted potatoes by drizzling the aioli atop them just before serving, giving an impressive twist to your sides.

For those who enjoy bold tastes, try using the aioli as a spread for sandwiches or wraps. A layer of this creamy sauce enhances turkey or veggie sandwiches with a bright freshness. Additionally, it makes a great topping for tacos, particularly fish tacos, where it adds a creamy texture and zesty kick that pairs beautifully with the spices of the taco fillings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to make this aioli ahead of time, it stores wonderfully in the refrigerator. Just keep it in an airtight container, and it should stay fresh for up to a week. The flavors will develop further as it sits, making it even more delicious on the second or third day. Just give it a good stir before serving to re-emulsify any separated ingredients.

For those interested in scaling up the recipe for a party, simply double or triple the ingredient quantities. If you do so, be cautious when adding garlic and lime zest; it can be easy to overpower the mix with these bold flavors. Start with smaller increments and adjust based on taste. Note that the chilling time may need to be increased slightly to promote a thorough blending of flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

→ How long can I store the aioli?

You can store the aioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

→ Is it possible to make this aioli vegan?

Absolutely! Use a vegan mayonnaise to keep it plant-based.

→ What dishes do you recommend serving this aioli with?

This aioli pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, tacos, and even as a dip for veggies or fries.