Cilantro Aioli
Published January 5, 2023 β’ Updated February 1, 2026
Creamy, lime-infused sauce for tacos, wraps or a dip
This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure policy.
This quick and simple cilantro aioli recipe is the perfect keto topping for your favorite meats, sandwiches or tacos!
Just like my Avocado Mayo, this cilantro aioli is creamy and filled with good-for-you fats that complement so many keto meals. Youβll love that this recipe is preservative-free, doesnβt use mayonnaise, and tastes so much fresher than anything you could buy at the store.
With just a few simple ingredients and a couple of minutes, you can have a jar of low carb aioli ready to go in the refrigerator to use all week long. One of my favorite things to slather this sauce on is crunchy fish tacos or anything Tex-Mex, but the uses are truly endless!
How to make cilantro aioli
- Combine egg yolk, garlic, lime or lemon juice and β teaspoon salt in a food processor.
- While itβs running, slowly drizzle in olive oil in a thin stream β the mixture will begin to thicken as the oil is added.
- Stir in cilantro and cumin until combined. Add more salt if needed. (Makes about 1 1/2 cups of aioli)
Key ingredients & substitutions
- Egg yolks – Remove the whites and only use the egg yolks to make the aioli. Yolks are high in fat and help create a truly creamy and thick sauce. To reduce the chances of the sauce breaking, bring the eggs to room temperature before processing. If youβre concerned about the potential for food poisoning from raw eggs, use pasteurized egg yolks.
- Lime juice – Lime juice adds flavor to this sauce but also acts as a stabilizer since itβs an acid. You can substitute lemon juice for lime juice if preferred.
- Olive oil – Oil helps create a thick and creamy emulsification for this sauce. If you donβt like the strong taste of extra virgin olive oil, use light olive oil. Just be sure that the oil is room temperature like the eggs, and that you add it in a very thin drizzle to keep the emulsification from breaking.
- Cilantro – Youβll love the fresh flavor cilantro adds to this sauce. Mince fresh cilantro before adding.
- Garlic – This ingredient is what separates aioli from regular mayo. Use fresh garlic or minced jarred garlic for this sauce.
Explore 680+ keto recipe videos with step-by-step instructions, tips, and tricks to make keto easy.
Ingredients
2 egg yolks -
2 cloves garlic
-
1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice
-
β
teaspoon salt, more to taste
-
1 cup olive oil
-
Β½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
-
Β½ teaspoon ground cumin
Step by Step Instructions
Step by Step Instructions
Add base aioli components
In a food processor, combine egg yolks, garlic, lemon juice and β teaspoon salt. Start food processor to combine.
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice
- β teaspoon salt
Slowly drizzle oil
While the food processor is running, slowly drizzle in olive oil in a thin stream. The mixture will begin to thicken as the oil is added.
- 1 cup olive oil
Make it cilantro flavored
Once the oil has been added, toss in cilantro and cumin and mix until combined. Taste and add more salt if needed.
- Β½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- Β½ teaspoon ground cumin
Nutrition disclaimer
The nutrition information provided is an estimate and is for informational purposes only. I am a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.); however, this content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified health provider before making any lifestyle changes or beginning a new nutrition program.
Calculate Your Keto Macros in 30 Seconds
Not sure if this recipe fits your daily targets? Our free calculator shows you personalized macros based on your goals, activity level, and body composition.
Get My Macros (Free) →Frequently Asked Questions
What is aioli sauce made of?
Traditional aioli includes garlic, oil, and salt, but can also be made to include egg yolks, lemon juice, and other seasonings.
Is aioli healthier than mayo?
Aioli and mayo are both made from similar fat sources and have similar nutrient values, so both work well on a keto diet.
Is it safe to eat raw eggs?
When eating raw eggs, there is a risk of foodborne illness. To be safe, you can use pasteurized eggs.
Can I make aioli with store bought mayo?
Yes! Adding garlic and spices to store bought mayonnaise is a shortcut way to make aioli, although it wonβt taste as fresh and flavorful as homemade.
