Cranberry Rosemary Aioli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this aioli because it balances sweet-tart cranberry with earthy rosemary in under five minutes—no cooking required. It adds a festive kick to everyday foods and feels special without any extra fuss.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mayonnaise

• Cranberry sauce (whole berry or smooth)

• Fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or dried)

• Salt

• Optional add-ins: lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder

directions

1. Scoop mayonnaise and cranberry sauce into a bowl.

2. Stir until smooth, then fold in rosemary and salt to taste. For extra pop, I like to add a squeeze of lemon juice, a teaspoon of Dijon, a dash of honey, or a pinch of garlic powder.

3. Chill for at least 10 minutes so the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

I usually make about ¾ cup, enough for 6 servings at roughly 2 tablespoons each.

• Prep time: ~3–5 minutes

• Chill time: ~10 minutes (optional)

Variations

• Spicy twist: I mix in sriracha, cayenne, or hot sauce.

• Dijon kick: Adding mustard gives tangy depth.

• Citrus boost: I grate lemon or orange zest for brightness.

• Herb swap: I sometimes swap rosemary with thyme, dill, or parsley.

• Light version: Using light mayo or Greek yogurt still gives great texture.

storage/reheating

I store leftover aioli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–7 days. No reheating needed—just stir before serving and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I skip the rosemary?

Absolutely. It’s optional. The cranberry mayo base alone still tastes amazing and festive.

Should I use canned or homemade cranberry sauce?

Either works. I often grab canned for convenience, but homemade adds a fresh zing.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes—just use vegan mayo and plain cranberry sauce. It’s just as creamy and flavorful.

Is this suitable for sandwiches?

Definitely. It’s perfect on turkey, ham, chicken, or veggie sandwiches and burgers.

Can I prepare it ahead?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead. Just give it a stir before serving—the flavors taste even more integrated.

Conclusion

I reach for this cranberry rosemary aioli whenever I want something quick yet special. Its silky texture and festive flavor make it a versatile companion—for sandwiches, sides, holiday meals, or simple snacks. It takes minutes, keeps well, and adds that extra spark to everyday dishes.