Blood Orange Mayonnaise

FOR GRILLED DISHES

The deep garnet juice of the late winter blood orange makes a startlingly beautiful mayonnaise. It can accompany chilled grilled leeks or grilled asparagus, green beans, or zucchini. If it’s not the season for blood oranges, use any other orange or tangerine.

Blood Orange Mayonnaise is a delightful and versatile condiment that brings a vibrant twist to your culinary creations. The combination of creamy mayonnaise with the tangy and slightly sweet flavors of blood oranges creates a harmonious balance that elevates the taste of various dishes, particularly grilled vegetables.

The recipe’s simplicity is part of its charm. Whisking together mayonnaise, freshly grated blood orange zest, and juice, along with a touch of extra-virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt, yields a luscious sauce that’s both creamy and refreshing. The blood orange zest imparts a fragrant citrus aroma, while the juice adds a bright and tangy note that cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise.

As a condiment, Blood Orange Mayonnaise is incredibly versatile. It can be served alongside an array of grilled vegetables, adding a burst of flavor and a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the charred and smoky notes from the grill. The zesty and citrusy profile of the mayo pairs particularly well with vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors and giving them a unique twist.

Whether you’re using it as a dipping sauce for roasted asparagus, a drizzle for grilled zucchini, or a topping for charred broccoli, Blood Orange Mayonnaise is sure to bring a touch of elegance and a pop of color to your dishes. Its vibrant hue and citrusy taste make it not only a delicious addition but also an eye-catching and inviting component of your meal.

The beauty of this condiment lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. While it shines as a complement to grilled vegetables, it can also be used as a spread for sandwiches, a dressing for salads, or even a dip for crispy appetizers. With just a few simple ingredients, Blood Orange Mayonnaise transforms your dishes into culinary delights, showcasing the unique and delightful flavors of blood oranges in every bite.

MAKES: ABOUT 1 CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• ⅔ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated blood orange zest plus ¼ cup fresh blood orange juice
• Pinch of kosher salt or coarse sea salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Whisk together: In a small bowl, whisk together all of the ingredients until well combined.
2. Serve: Spoon a small amount of the blood orange mayo over grilled vegetables or serve it alongside as a dipping sauce.
3. Storage: Refrigerate any leftovers in a covered container for up to 3 days.

VARIATIONS:

• Herb-Infused Mayonnaise: Add an extra layer of flavor by incorporating finely chopped fresh herbs such as basil, tarragon, or chives. The herbs will complement the citrusy notes of the blood orange and add a touch of freshness.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mayo. The combination of heat and citrus creates a tantalizing contrast that can elevate your dishes.
• Creamy Garlic Twist: Incorporate roasted or minced garlic into the mayonnaise for a creamy garlic twist. Roasting the garlic first will mellow out its sharpness and infuse the mayo with a rich and nutty flavor.
• Honey Infusion: To balance the tanginess of the blood orange, try adding a touch of honey. The sweetness will complement the citrus and create a harmonious blend of flavors.
• Savory Parmesan Blend: Mix in grated Parmesan cheese for a savory umami element. The combination of the cheese’s nuttiness and the citrusy tang of the blood orange will result in a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
• Ginger Zing: Introduce grated fresh ginger to the mix for a hint of spiciness and a warm, aromatic note. Ginger pairs well with citrus and can add a delightful kick to the mayonnaise.
• Cilantro Lime Twist: For a different citrusy dimension, substitute lime zest and juice for the blood orange. Mix in some chopped cilantro for a bright and refreshing twist.
• Nutty Texture: Enhance the texture by stirring in chopped nuts like toasted almonds or pistachios. The nuts will provide a pleasant crunch that contrasts with the creamy mayo.
• Infused Oils: Instead of plain olive oil, try using infused oils such as lemon-infused olive oil. This will intensify the citrus flavor and create a more layered taste.
• Curry Infusion: Incorporate a pinch of curry powder or garam masala for an exotic flair. The warm spices will complement the blood orange’s zestiness and add depth to the mayo.