This Condiment Will Take Your Sandwich to a Whole New Level

Mayonnaise is a ubiquitous condiment. It's used liberally on burgers, in dips, sandwiches, dressings, salads and even in baking. When we think about mayonnaise, we typically think of it as a creamy, spreadable semi-solid that makes other things taste even better. One of the amazing aspects of this condiment is that it's almost wholly comprised of oil in an emulsified state. That's a lot of oil and therefore calories. Furthermore, the leading national mayonnaise brands typically use canola and or soy oil... yikes!!! Now we're talking empty calories derived solely from chemically refined oils.

The good news is that you can make your own fantastic mayonnaise (aioli) with a handful of pantry staples and heart healthy extra virgin olive oil. This recipe can be made using 100% extra virgin olive oil. However, when agitated in a blender or food processor, extra virgin olive oil may become slightly bitter. In light of this, I recommend using a blend of safflower oil and extra virgin olive oil. Feel free to play with the ratios between these oils to fit your taste. And please, please do not stop at Persian Lime Aioli. Try a blood orange, lemon, Tuscan herb or garlic extra virgin olive oil mayonnaise too. I hope you enjoy!!!

-Rachel

Persian Lime Aioli

2 fresh garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp. sea salt

1 large egg yolk

1 Tbs. fresh squeezed lime juice

1/2 cup neutral oil such as safflower or grape seed oil

1/2 cup Delizia Persian Lime extra virgin olive oil

Place the garlic and salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade or in a blender. Pulse for a few seconds. Add the egg yolk and lime juice. With the motor running, slowly add the safflower oil in a thin stream. Without turning the motor off, add the Persian Lime extra virgin olive slowly in a thin stream. Taste and finish with more salt if necessary.

Makes approximately 1 cup.