Herbed Artichoke Aioli

1. Prepare Ingredients

First, take your well-drained artichoke hearts, fresh basil leaves, and mint leaves, and give them a rough chop. This initial chopping step ensures that all the ingredients blend evenly when you process them. Place the chopped artichokes, basil, and mint into a food processor.

2. Blend Mayonnaise

Next, add the mayonnaise to the food processor. Blend this mixture until it looks smooth, creating a consistent base for your aioli.

3. Incorporate Egg Yolk and Seasonings

Now, it's time to incorporate the egg yolk, lemon juice, kosher salt, and a few grinds of freshly ground black pepper. When you add these ingredients, they not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the richness and thickness of the aioli. Continue to blend until the mixture starts to thicken.

4. Emulsify with Olive Oil

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil. This step is crucial because it emulsifies the aioli, giving it that creamy and fluffy texture you’re aiming for. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture looks beautifully creamy.

5. Adjust Seasoning and Store

After blending, take a moment to taste your aioli. Adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed to balance the flavors. Transfer the aioli to a sealed container and store it in the refrigerator to preserve its freshness. Your herbed artichoke aioli is now ready to be enjoyed as a dip, spread on sandwiches, or even as a topping for fish before baking.