Herbed Lemon Zest Homemade Mayonnaise

Highlighted under: Healthy Recipe Ideas

Elevate your sandwiches and salads with this delightful Herbed Lemon Zest Homemade Mayonnaise that is both fresh and flavorful.

Emma Johnson

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-20T13:41:49.878Z

This Herbed Lemon Zest Homemade Mayonnaise is a game changer in the kitchen. With the zing of fresh lemon and fragrant herbs, it transforms any dish into a gourmet experience.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavor to classic mayonnaise
  • Bright lemon zest adds a refreshing twist
  • Easy to make and customizable with your favorite herbs

The Perfect Base for Any Dish

Homemade mayonnaise is not just a condiment; it’s a versatile base for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making a classic tuna salad or a gourmet sandwich, this Herbed Lemon Zest Mayonnaise adds a rich creaminess that elevates your meals. The fresh ingredients ensure that every bite is packed with flavor, making it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

What sets this mayonnaise apart is its ability to complement a wide range of flavors. The bright notes of lemon and fresh herbs create a dynamic taste profile that can balance rich or spicy dishes. Use it as a dip, a spread, or even in dressings to enhance your meals effortlessly.

Customization at Its Best

One of the joys of making your own mayonnaise is the freedom to customize it to your taste. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to experiment with different herbs and seasonings. Try swapping out the parsley for basil or adding a hint of garlic for an extra punch. The options are endless, and you can create a mayonnaise that perfectly matches your flavor preferences.

Don’t hesitate to get creative! Consider adding a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick or incorporating sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist. Each variation opens up new culinary possibilities, making every batch unique and tailored just for you.

Storage and Shelf Life

Once you’ve whipped up your Herbed Lemon Zest Mayonnaise, it’s essential to know how to store it properly. This homemade condiment can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Be sure to label the container with the date it was made, so you can enjoy it at its freshest.

For best results, always use clean utensils when scooping out the mayonnaise to avoid contamination. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it. Enjoy your homemade mayonnaise in salads, sandwiches, and more throughout the week!

Ingredients

For the Mayonnaise

  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 cup neutral oil (like canola or avocado)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or chives)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, and white wine vinegar until well combined.

Emulsify

While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the neutral oil until the mixture thickens and emulsifies.

Add Flavor

Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve or Store

Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Feel free to experiment with different herbs for unique flavor combinations!

Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect emulsification, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent the oil from blending properly with the egg yolk, leading to a thinner consistency. If you’re in a hurry, you can warm the egg yolk slightly by placing it in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes before starting.

Whisking is key to creating a thick and creamy mayonnaise. If you’re using a hand whisk, be prepared for a workout! Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender for a quicker and easier emulsification process. Just be sure to start slow and gradually increase the speed as the mixture thickens.

Serving Suggestions

This Herbed Lemon Zest Mayonnaise pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, seafood, and even as a topping for baked potatoes. Spread it on your favorite sandwiches or use it as a dip for fresh veggies and crackers. It can also enhance simple dishes like roasted chicken or fish, adding a burst of flavor without any fuss.

For a refreshing salad dressing, thin the mayonnaise with a little extra lemon juice or water. This versatile condiment can transform your salads into gourmet creations, making healthy eating a delightful experience.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a blender to make mayonnaise?

Yes, a blender can be used. Just blend the egg yolk and mustard first, then slowly add the oil while blending.

→ How long can I store homemade mayonnaise?

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

→ What can I use homemade mayonnaise for?

You can use it as a spread for sandwiches, a dip for vegetables, or as a base for dressings.

→ Can I make this mayonnaise vegan?

Yes! You can replace the egg yolk with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for a vegan version.

Herbed Lemon Zest Homemade Mayonnaise

Elevate your sandwiches and salads with this delightful Herbed Lemon Zest Homemade Mayonnaise that is both fresh and flavorful.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time10 minutes

Created by: Emma Johnson

Recipe Type: Healthy Recipe Ideas

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 1 cup

What You'll Need

For the Mayonnaise

  1. 1 large egg yolk
  2. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  3. 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  4. 1 cup neutral oil (like canola or avocado)
  5. 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  6. 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  7. 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or chives)
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, and white wine vinegar until well combined.

Step 02

While continuously whisking, slowly drizzle in the neutral oil until the mixture thickens and emulsifies.

Step 03

Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped herbs, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 04

Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 1g