04 Mar 2025
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup vegetable oil
2 yolks
2 tbsp lemon zest
Lemon mayonnaise is a versatile and refreshing condiment that adds a bright, tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking to elevate your sandwiches, salads, or seafood, this recipe offers a zesty twist on traditional mayo. Made with simple ingredients, this homemade version ensures you get the freshest taste possible with minimal effort.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
- Separate the egg yolks from the whites and place the yolks in a medium-sized bowl.
- Measure out 1/3 cup each of olive oil and vegetable oil.
- Zest a lemon until you have 2 tablespoons worth.
2. Whisk the Yolks:
- Using a whisk or an electric mixer on low speed, begin to beat the egg yolks until they become pale and smooth.
3. Combine the Oils:
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the olive oil and vegetable oil.
4. Emulsify:
- With the mixer on medium speed (or continuing to whisk vigorously), add the combined oils to the yolks very slowly. Start by adding just a few drops at a time. This helps create a stable emulsion. After about a minute, you can start adding the oil in a thin, steady stream.
- Make sure to continuously whisk or blend while adding the oils to ensure that the mixture emulsifies properly and doesn’t separate.
5. Incorporate Lemon Zest:
- Once all the oil has been added and the mixture has emulsified into a thick mayonnaise, gently fold in the 2 tablespoons of lemon zest.
- Mix well to distribute the zest evenly throughout the mayonnaise.
6. Adjust Seasoning (Optional):
- Taste your lemon mayonnaise. If desired, you can add a pinch of salt, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a bit more zest to taste.
7. Store and Serve:
- Transfer the lemon mayonnaise to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Use within a week and keep it in the refrigerator.
Tips:
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure the mayonnaise emulsifies properly.
- Slowly drizzle the oil into the yolks while whisking continuously to achieve the right consistency.
- For an even zestier kick, you can add a dash of fresh lemon juice.
- If the mayonnaise becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a small amount of water or additional lemon juice.
Crafting your own lemon mayonnaise at home is not only straightforward but also incredibly rewarding. By following this recipe, you’ll create a creamy, zesty spread that can enhance the flavor of numerous dishes. Enjoy your homemade lemon mayonnaise knowing it’s fresh, flavorful, and made with love.