Name: Basil Mayo Dressing
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise; 2 cups fresh basil leaves ((two 1.25-ounce packages)); 2 ½ teaspoons lemon juice; 1 ½ teaspoons fresh lemon zest; 2 medium-sized garlic cloves (peeled and roughly chopped); ¼ cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ⅛ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground cumin

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Whenever I think about a delicious way to elevate my sandwiches, I immediately think of Basil Mayo Dressing. This simple yet flavorful dressing has been a staple in my kitchen for years. I remember the first time I whipped it up; it was a sunny afternoon, and I had just come back from the farmer’s market with a fresh bunch of basil. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn’t wait to blend it into a creamy dressing that would perfectly complement my grilled chicken sandwiches. The blend of vibrant basil with rich mayonnaise and a hint of lemon always makes my taste buds dance.

What I love most about Basil Mayo Dressing is its versatility. It’s not just for sandwiches; it can transform a plain salad into something extraordinary or even serve as a dip for veggies. The creamy texture paired with fresh ingredients makes it a crowd-pleaser at summer barbecues and picnics. Plus, it’s incredibly quick to make, which means I can whip it up in a pinch when unexpected guests drop by. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dressing that adds depth and flavor to any dish.

This dressing has a nostalgic quality for me, as I often make it when hosting gatherings. It brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual lunch or a festive dinner. The best part? You can store any leftovers in your fridge, allowing you to enjoy that delicious taste all week long. So, the next time you’re looking to jazz up your meals, remember this easy recipe for Basil Mayo Dressing. It might just become your new favorite kitchen companion!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
measuring cups and spoons, citrus juicer, citrus zester, mini food processor (3-cup capacity), rubber spatula

The Appeal of This Basil Mayo Dressing

Fresh Ingredients Shine

The beauty of Basil Mayo Dressing lies in the freshness of its ingredients. Using fresh basil from your local market or garden gives this dressing a vibrant flavor that dried herbs simply can’t match. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a delicious balance, making it so much more than just a condiment.

Quick and Easy to Make

In today’s fast-paced world, we all appreciate recipes that don’t take hours to prepare. This dressing comes together in mere minutes! Just toss everything into your food processor and blend away. It’s perfect for those last-minute meal preps or when you’re short on time but still want to impress.

Versatile Application

Not only does this dressing elevate sandwiches, but it also serves as a fantastic dip and salad topping. Imagine drizzling it over a fresh garden salad or using it as a dip for crunchy veggies. Its creamy texture complements a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your culinary arsenal.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dressing is a hit at parties and gatherings. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor dinner, Basil Mayo Dressing is sure to garner compliments. It’s not just a dressing; it’s a conversation starter, and it adds an element of excitement to any meal.

Stays Fresh in the Fridge

Another appealing aspect of this dressing is its shelf-life. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it stays fresh for up to four days. This means you can make it ahead of time, reducing stress during your mealtime preparation.

Healthier Choice

By making your own dressing, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can adjust the flavors to your liking, making it a healthier choice than many store-bought dressings that contain preservatives and artificial flavors. This dressing not only tastes great but is a wholesome addition to your meals.

Ingredients for Basil Mayo Dressing

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for making an exceptional Basil Mayo Dressing. Each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture, resulting in a creamy and refreshing dressing. Here, the stars are fresh basil, rich mayonnaise, and a touch of lemon juice. Together, they create a delightful blend that enhances any dish.

½ cup mayonnaise: The base of our dressing, providing creaminess and richness.
2 cups packed fresh basil leaves (two 1.25-ounce packages): The hero ingredient that brings a fresh, aromatic flavor.
2 ½ teaspoons lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness to balance the richness of the mayonnaise.
1 ½ teaspoons fresh lemon zest: Enhances the lemon flavor and adds a fragrant aroma.
2 medium-sized garlic cloves, peeled and roughly chopped: Infuses the dressing with a subtle depth of flavor.
¼ cup whole milk: Adjusts the consistency, making it pourable and creamy.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and a fruity note to the dressing.
⅛ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
½ teaspoon ground cumin: Introduces an earthy touch that complements the basil.

The Method for Basil Mayo Dressing

Making Basil Mayo Dressing is as easy as gathering your ingredients and giving them a good blend. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together!

Start by preparing your ingredients. Measure out ½ cup of mayonnaise, 2 cups of packed fresh basil leaves, 2 ½ teaspoons of lemon juice, 1 ½ teaspoons of fresh lemon zest, 2 chopped garlic cloves, ¼ cup of whole milk, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ⅛ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cumin.
In the bowl of your mini food processor, add all the ingredients together. Make sure to pack the basil leaves tightly to get the most flavor out of them.
Blend the mixture on high speed until the basil leaves are finely chopped. This should take about 30 seconds. You’ll want a smooth and creamy texture.
Stop the processor and scrape down the sides with a rubber spatula to ensure everything is well combined. This is important to ensure there are no lumps of the basil left.
Blend again for another 10 to 15 seconds until you achieve a uniform consistency.
Taste your dressing and feel free to adjust the seasoning. Add a little more salt or another splash of lemon juice if you want a brighter flavor.
Once satisfied with the taste, transfer your Basil Mayo Dressing into a clean, airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will deepen as the dressing sits, making it even more delicious!
Enjoy your dressing as a spread, dip, or salad dressing. The possibilities are endless!

Things Worth Knowing

Use fresh basil: Fresh basil is key for the best flavor. If you can, grow your own!
Adjust the consistency: If it’s too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Blend well: Ensure everything is blended thoroughly for a creamy texture.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other herbs like parsley or dill for a unique twist.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

While I love the basic version of Basil Mayo Dressing, there are many ways to adapt it to suit your taste! Here are some ideas:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dressing because the texture may change once thawed.
Pairing: This dressing pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, sandwiches, or even as a dip for fresh veggies.
Herb Variations: Try adding other herbs like cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile.
Spice it up: For a kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Great Combinations for Basil Mayo Dressing

Serving Basil Mayo Dressing opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy it:

Sandwich Spread: Use it as a spread on your favorite sandwiches to add a burst of flavor.
Salad Dressing: Drizzle it over fresh salads for a creamy and herbaceous touch.
Vegetable Dip: Serve it as a dip with raw veggies for a refreshing appetizer.
Grilled Chicken: Use it as a marinade for grilled chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
Summer Barbecues: This dressing is perfect for summer gatherings; serve it alongside grilled meats.
Picnics: Take it along to picnics to add extra flavor to your meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! Basil Mayo Dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep. As the flavors meld, it might even taste better after a day or two. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

The versatility of Basil Mayo Dressing is one of its best qualities. You can use it as a spread on sandwiches, a dip for vegetables, or a flavorful dressing for salads. It also works wonders as a marinade for grilled chicken or fish, making it a great addition to your summer barbecues.

To store leftover Basil Mayo Dressing, simply place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last up to four days. Remember to give it a good stir before using, as some separation may occur. This dressing is best enjoyed fresh, so try to make only what you need.

Yes! While the standard recipe for Basil Mayo Dressing is delicious on its own, you can customize it to your liking. Consider adding other herbs like cilantro or parsley for a different flavor profile. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the dressing even further.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Basil Mayo Dressing is a delightful and versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Its fresh flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite for many dishes, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how a simple dressing can transform your meals and impress your family and friends.