Herbed Lemon Zest Homemade Mayonnaise

Name: Herbed Lemon Zest Homemade Mayonnaise
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 1 large egg at room temperature; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed); 1 teaspoon lemon zest; 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or basil), finely chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Nutritious Food Recipes

Elevate your sandwiches and dips with this fresh and zesty homemade mayonnaise infused with herbs and lemon zest.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-20T09:37:51.395Z

This herbed lemon zest homemade mayonnaise is a delightful twist on the classic recipe. Perfect for adding depth of flavor to your favorite dishes, it's quick to make and can be customized with your favorite herbs!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor paired with fresh herbs
Creamy texture that enhances any dish
Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients

      

The Benefits of Homemade Mayonnaise

Making mayonnaise at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you avoid preservatives and artificial additives commonly found in store-bought versions. This homemade version is not only fresher but also tailored to your taste preferences. You can experiment with different oils and flavors, customizing it to complement your dishes perfectly.

Another significant advantage is the ability to adjust the thickness and creaminess to your liking. Whether you prefer a light and airy mayo or a thick and rich spread, making it yourself gives you full control. Plus, the satisfaction of whipping up a delicious condiment from scratch is unmatched!

Perfect Pairings

This herbed lemon zest mayonnaise is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with sandwiches, enhancing turkey or ham with its zesty flavor. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for fresh vegetables, making it a healthy addition to any party platter. The bright lemon and herb notes elevate even the simplest of snacks.

For those who love to grill, try using this mayonnaise as a marinade for chicken or fish. Its creamy texture helps to keep the meat moist while adding flavor, making your grilled dishes even more delightful. Don't forget to use it as a spread on wraps and burgers for an extra burst of flavor!

Storage Tips

Once you've made your homemade mayonnaise, proper storage is crucial to maintaining its freshness and flavor. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to one week. Always use a clean utensil to scoop out the mayonnaise to prevent contamination and spoilage.

If you find yourself with extra mayonnaise, consider freezing it in ice cube trays. Once frozen, you can transfer the cubes to a zip-top bag for easy portioning. This way, you can always have a homemade mayo ready to use whenever you need it!

Ingredients

For the Mayonnaise

1 large egg at room temperature
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 cup neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like dill, parsley, or basil), finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to experiment with different herbs to suit your taste!

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a tall, narrow container, combine the egg, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.

Blend

Using an immersion blender, blend the ingredients for about 10 seconds until well combined.

Add Oil Slowly

With the blender running, slowly drizzle in the oil until the mayonnaise thickens to your desired consistency.

Add Zest and Herbs

Stir in the lemon zest and chopped herbs, mixing well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Refrigerate

Transfer the mayonnaise to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week.

Enjoy your homemade mayonnaise on sandwiches, salads, or as a dip!

Serving Suggestions

Use your herbed lemon zest mayonnaise as a flavorful base for potato salad or coleslaw. It adds a refreshing twist that your guests will love. Additionally, it can be used in egg salad or tuna salad, offering a zesty upgrade to these classic dishes.

For a quick snack, spread it on whole grain crackers or use it as a dip for fresh fruit. The combination of creamy mayo with the sharpness of herbs creates an unexpected yet delightful treat!

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different herbs depending on your preferences and what you have on hand. For example, adding fresh chives or tarragon can provide unique flavors that will surprise your taste buds. Spicy enthusiasts might enjoy incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeños for a kick.

If you're looking for a different flavor profile, try substituting lime juice and zest for lemon. This small change will give your mayonnaise a refreshing twist, perfect for summer dishes or Mexican-inspired recipes.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long can I store homemade mayonnaise?

Homemade mayonnaise can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ Can I use olive oil for mayonnaise?

Yes, but be aware that it will impart a strong flavor. A light olive oil works best.

→ Is it safe to use raw eggs in mayonnaise?

Yes, as long as you use fresh, high-quality eggs. If concerned, you can use pasteurized eggs.

→ What can I use this mayonnaise for?

It's great for sandwiches, dressings, dips, and as a base for various sauces.