Outback’s Roasted Garlic Herb Aioli: A Symphony of Flavor

There are certain aromas that, once encountered, imbed themselves in your culinary memory. For me, the scent of slow-roasted garlic, its pungent bite softened into a mellow sweetness, is one of them. It conjures up images of cozy Sunday dinners and bustling restaurant kitchens. When I first tasted Outback’s Roasted Garlic Herb Aioli, it was served alongside their Roasted Filet Focaccia Sandwich, a pairing that struck me as inspired. The rich, creamy aioli, infused with that deeply satisfying roasted garlic and fragrant herbs, elevated the already delicious sandwich to something truly memorable. It’s the kind of condiment that makes you pause, savor, and then reach for another bite, a testament to the power of simple, well-executed flavors.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (assuming roasted garlic is pre-prepared)
• Total Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Servings: 4
• Yield: Approximately 1.25 cups
• Dietary Type: Vegetarian (can be made Vegan with egg-free mayonnaise)

Ingredients

This aioli is remarkably simple to assemble, relying on the quality of its core components. The star, of course, is the roasted garlic, which should be mellow, sweet, and spreadable.

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons roasted garlic (from whole heads, mashed into a paste)
• 2 teaspoons thyme (fresh, finely chopped)
• 2 teaspoons rosemary (fresh, finely chopped)
• Black pepper, to taste
• Kosher salt, to taste

A Note on Roasted Garlic: While you can purchase pre-roasted garlic, the flavor is often superior when you roast it yourself. To roast garlic, slice off the top quarter of a whole head, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until the cloves are soft and golden brown. Once cooled slightly, the cloves can be squeezed out of their skins and mashed into a paste.

Optional Substitutions:

• For a vegan version, use a high-quality egg-free mayonnaise. The flavor will be similar, though the texture might vary slightly depending on the brand.

Equipment Needed

You won’t need an arsenal of specialized tools for this recipe. The simplicity of the preparation is part of its charm.

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Small container for storage

Instructions

The beauty of this aioli lies in its effortless assembly. The key is allowing ample time for the flavors to meld.

1. Combine the Base: In a mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise.
2. Incorporate the Roasted Garlic: Add the roasted garlic paste to the mayonnaise. It’s important that the garlic is mashed smoothly to ensure it integrates seamlessly without any large chunks.
3. Add the Fresh Herbs: Stir in the finely chopped thyme and rosemary. The fresh herbs are crucial for lifting the richness of the garlic and mayonnaise, providing bright, aromatic notes.
4. Season to Perfection: Season the mixture with black pepper and kosher salt to your liking. Start with a small amount, as the roasted garlic and mayonnaise already have inherent flavors. You can always add more later after chilling.
5. Whisk Thoroughly: Whisk all the ingredients together until they are completely combined and the aioli has a uniform, creamy consistency. Ensure there are no streaks of garlic or herbs. A fork can also be used effectively here.
6. Transfer and Chill: Spoon the aioli into a small container with a lid.
7. Allow Flavors to Marry: Refrigerate the aioli for at least a few hours before use. This chilling period is critical. It allows the intense flavors of the roasted garlic and fresh herbs to meld and deepen, transforming a simple mixture into a truly exceptional condiment. The longer it chills, the more profound the flavor will become.

Expert Tips & Tricks

As a chef, I’m always looking for ways to enhance even the simplest of recipes. Here are a few insights to elevate your Roasted Garlic Herb Aioli:

• The Importance of Patience: I cannot stress this enough: don’t skip the chilling time! The aioli is good immediately, but it becomes great after a few hours in the refrigerator. The garlic’s sweetness mellows further, and the herbs release their essential oils, creating a complex and harmonious flavor profile.
• Garlic Consistency is Key: When mashing your roasted garlic, aim for a smooth paste. You can achieve this by using the back of a fork or a small mortar and pestle. Any large pieces of garlic can create an uneven texture in your final aioli.
• Herb Quality Matters: Using fresh herbs is non-negotiable for this recipe. Dried herbs, while convenient, will not impart the same vibrant aroma and fresh, slightly peppery notes that fresh thyme and rosemary provide. Finely chop them to ensure they are evenly distributed.
• Taste and Adjust: Always taste and adjust your seasoning after the aioli has chilled for a couple of hours. The flavors will have developed and intensified, and you might find you need a touch more salt or pepper.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Roasted Garlic Herb Aioli is incredibly versatile, extending far beyond its initial pairing.

• Serving: Dollop it generously onto sandwiches, burgers, or wraps. It’s a fantastic dipping sauce for vegetables, fries, chicken tenders, or seafood. It can also be swirled into soups or used as a base for dressings. For an elegant presentation, serve it in a small ramekin or elegant bowl, garnished with a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme.
• Storage: Store the aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will typically keep well for up to 5 days. Because it’s mayonnaise-based, it’s best enjoyed fresh rather than frozen. Ensure it’s always kept cold when not in use. If you notice any separation or off odors, it’s time to discard it.

Nutritional Information

Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	239.2 kcal	12%
Total Fat	19.7 g	25%
Saturated Fat	2.9 g	14%
Cholesterol	15.3 mg	5%
Sodium	418.9 mg	18%
Total Carbohydrate	16.2 g	6%
Dietary Fiber	0.2 g	1%
Sugars	3.8 g	4%
Protein	0.9 g	2%

(This nutritional breakdown is an approximation based on standard mayonnaise and roasted garlic values.)

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic Outback rendition is superb, feel free to explore variations:

• Spicy Kick: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat).
• Lemon Zest: A teaspoon of fresh lemon zest can add a bright, citrusy counterpoint to the richness.
• Different Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or even a hint of tarragon for a more complex flavor profile.
• Smoky Undertones: A tiny pinch of smoked paprika can introduce a subtle smoky depth.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this aioli ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, it’s highly recommended. The flavors meld and deepen significantly when chilled for several hours or even overnight.

Q: What kind of mayonnaise should I use?
A: A good quality, full-fat mayonnaise will yield the best results in terms of flavor and texture. For a vegan version, opt for an egg-free mayonnaise that you enjoy the taste of.

Q: How do I know when my roasted garlic is ready?
A: Your roasted garlic is ready when the cloves are very soft, tender, and easily squeezable from their skins. They should have a golden-brown hue.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A: While fresh herbs are preferred, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1/3 of the amount called for fresh herbs (so approximately 2/3 teaspoon of dried thyme and 2/3 teaspoon of dried rosemary) and be sure to rehydrate them slightly in a teaspoon of warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the aioli.

Q: How long will the aioli last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, the aioli will last for about 5 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

This Roasted Garlic Herb Aioli is a testament to how a few simple, high-quality ingredients, treated with a little care and time, can create something truly extraordinary. It’s more than just a condiment; it’s a flavor enhancer that can transform the ordinary into the memorable. Whether you’re recreating that beloved Outback sandwich at home or looking for a versatile staple to elevate your everyday meals, this aioli is a winner. I encourage you to make a batch, let it work its magic in the refrigerator, and discover the depth of flavor it brings to your table. Enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite!