Garlic aioli salad is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. This salad is a delightful dance of creamy, pungent garlic aioli and your favorite fresh vegetables. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is easy to follow and will surely impress.
Aioli: A Sauce with a Story
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the star of our dish – the aioli. This Mediterranean sauce, with its rich history dating back to ancient Rome, boasts a creamy texture and a bold garlic flavor that elevates any dish it graces. Legend has it that aioli was a favorite of Caesar himself!
Gather Your Ingredients
For the garlic aioli:
- 2 large cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup grapeseed oil (or another neutral-flavored oil)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, spinach, or arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cucumber, thinly sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Tools of the Trade
- A medium-sized mixing bowl
- A whisk or a food processor
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
Garlic and Olive Oil
Crafting Your Garlic Aioli Masterpiece
- Prepare the garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely. For a milder flavor, you can remove the green germ from the center of the clove.
- Whisk together the base: In the mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Slowly drizzle in the oil: While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the olive oil, drop by drop, until the mixture begins to thicken and emulsify. Once the olive oil is incorporated, gradually whisk in the grapeseed oil.
- Add finishing touches: Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to your liking. If the aioli is too thick, add a teaspoon of water at a time to reach your desired consistency.
Assembling Your Flavorful Creation
- Wash and prep your greens: Rinse the mixed greens thoroughly and pat them dry.
- Slice and dice: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the cucumber and red onion.
- Assemble your salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
- Drizzle and serve: Just before serving, drizzle the desired amount of garlic aioli over the salad. Gently toss to coat.
- Final flourish: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips and Tricks from a Salad Enthusiast
- Room temperature is key: Make sure your egg yolk is at room temperature. This helps it emulsify better with the oil, resulting in a smoother aioli.
- Don’t rush the oil: Drizzle the oil in slowly, especially in the beginning. This ensures that the aioli emulsifies properly and doesn’t separate.
- Taste as you go: Seasoning is key! Be sure to taste the aioli as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
- Get creative with toppings: This recipe is a template for creativity! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, protein (like grilled chicken or chickpeas), or nuts for an extra crunch.
Delicious and vibrant garlic aioli salad
Garlic Aioli Salad: Your New Go-To
This garlic aioli salad is a symphony of fresh flavors and creamy textures, sure to be a hit at your next gathering. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, be sure to also check out our recipe on how to make fried scallops for another delicious dish. Remember, cooking should be fun and experimental. Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this recipe and share your culinary masterpiece with us in the comments below!
