Saffron Aioli

I feel aiolis make an excellent compliment to a number of different types of appetizers and entrees. This particular aioli is inspired by the Mediterranean coastal areas of Spain and France, and was a frequent compliment to many foods during my study abroad. I like it on everything from crabcakes, fish, and even sushi to chicken and finger foods. You can put the aioli in a pastry decorating bag to create appealing appetizers and tapas. This particular recipe calls for saffron threads and saffron powder. Saffron is easy to find in most place in the thread form, but the powder can be a little more difficult to locate. If you visit a hispanic market, you can typically purchase enough pouches of saffron powder to last you over time. I use Vigo brand. Also, please consider using Hellman's original mayonnaise when making this recipe - avoid using Kraft, Miracle Whip, and sweet mayonnaises at all costs. If you use a low fat mayo, I also recommend Hellman's. Another tip - when purchasing your saffron (and other spices in general), its often $6-10 US dollars cheaper if you buy it in the hispanic/ethnic section of your grocery store. For instance, Badia Saffron runs about $3 in my grocery store, but the same amount of McCormick Saffron can cost upwards of $10. Hope you enjoy!

• Ready In: 12 mins
• Serves: 10-12
• Yields: 1 1/4 Cups

Ingredients

• 1  cup mayonnaise
• 1  tablespoon lemon juice (fresh)
• 2 -3  garlic cloves, pressed
• 2  pinches saffron threads
• 1  teaspoon saffron
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

1. Steep the saffron threads in warm water for about 10 minutes. Drain water, but don't allow threads to dry out.
2. Combine mayonnaise, and lemon juice with a wire whisk, mixing together until uniform.
3. Add pressed garlic, only 1/2 of saffron threads, 1 teaspoon of saffron powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper and continue to mix once again until uniform in texture.
4. Use remaining saffron threads to garnish aioli in a small ramekin, bowl, or directly on top of food. Serve cool to slightly below room temperature.