Roasted Garlic Aioli Crostini

Name: Roasted Garlic Aioli Crostini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 head of garlic; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 baguette, sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried herbs (optional)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely love making Roasted Garlic Aioli Crostini for gatherings or a cozy night in. The creamy, rich aioli, infused with roasted garlic, pairs beautifully with the crispy bread. It’s incredible how a few simple ingredients can create such a fantastic flavor. Perfectly toasted crostini serving as the base makes the whole experience delightful. Whenever I prepare this, I always find my friends and family coming back for seconds. It’s a treat that combines elegance and comfort effortlessly.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:58:28.161Z

When I first made Roasted Garlic Aioli Crostini, I was amazed by how the flavor transformed with each bite. Roasting the garlic brings out a sweet, nutty taste that elevates the aioli beyond the ordinary. I remember savoring each crostini while brainstorming ideas for my next gathering, the simplicity of the recipe inspiring me to experiment with different toppings.

One tip I discovered is to let the aioli sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The combination of creamy, garlicky goodness with the crunchy texture of toasted bread is always a winner in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy, garlicky goodness that elevates any snack
Perfect balance of crunch and creaminess
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute gatherings

The Importance of Roasting Garlic

Roasting garlic transforms its sharpness into a sweet, mellow flavor that is essential for the creamy aioli. When roasted at 400°F (200°C), the cloves caramelize, releasing their natural oils and sugars which enhances their sweetness. This process not only improves the taste of the aioli but also makes it incredibly smooth—you want that silky texture to coat each crostini perfectly. Keep an eye on the garlic; you’re looking for a slightly golden color and a soft texture, which indicates it’s ready to squeeze into your mix.

For those who might want to experiment, try using different types of garlic, such as purple or elephant garlic, which can impart distinct flavors. If you find you’ve over-roasted and the garlic has turned too dark, don’t panic! Just remove any overly charred bits before adding to the aioli, as they can impart a bitter taste.

Crafting the Perfect Crostini

Crostini are all about texture—the contrast between crisp, toasted bread and the creamy aioli is what makes this dish outstanding. I recommend cutting the baguette into slices that are about ½ inch thick for optimal crunch. When brushing with olive oil, don’t skimp; you want a nice sheen on each piece to ensure it toasts evenly. Also, feel free to customize your toppings by adding shredded cheese or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra layer of flavor before toasting.

Keep an eye on the crostini as they bake. You want them to be golden brown with just a hint of crispness, usually around 8 to 10 minutes in a hot oven. If you notice that some are browning faster than others, rotate the baking sheet for even cooking. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can prepare the crostini in advance, store them in an airtight container, and reheat them briefly in the oven to regain their crunch.

Ingredients

For the Aioli

1 cup mayonnaise
1 head of garlic
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crostini

1 baguette, sliced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried herbs (optional)

Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add other herbs to suit your taste!

Instructions

Roast the Garlic

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the top off the head of garlic to expose the cloves and drizzle with olive oil. Wrap in aluminum foil and roast for 30 minutes, or until soft.

Prepare the Aioli

Once the garlic is cool, squeeze the softened cloves into a bowl. Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Make the Crostini

While the garlic is roasting, brush the baguette slices with olive oil and sprinkle with dried herbs if using. Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Spread the roasted garlic aioli on the toasted baguette slices and serve them warm. Enjoy!

This dish is best enjoyed freshly made, but the aioli can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the aioli for a spicy twist!

Storing and Reheating

While this dish is best served fresh, you can make the roasted garlic aioli a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits, improving the overall taste. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as it may separate slightly due to the oil and the lemon juice.

If you do have leftover crostini, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a short time. However, to maintain their crispiness, it’s best to eat them the same day. If they become soft, try reheating them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes to regain some crunch.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

Feel free to mimic classic combinations by adding toppings like sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze to your crostini before adding aioli. These additions can elevate the dish further and provide a burst of freshness alongside the creamy richness. You might also consider experimenting with flavored oils, like garlic-infused olive oil, to brush over the baguette slices.

If you're catering to dietary restrictions, consider replacing the mayonnaise with an avocado-based dressing or a vegan aioli alternative to keep the creamy texture while maintaining a plant-based profile. This allows everyone to enjoy crostini without sacrificing flavor, ensuring your gathering is inclusive.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh garlic instead of roasted?

While you can use fresh garlic, roasting it mellows the flavor and adds sweetness, making the aioli much more delicious.

→ How long can I store the aioli?

The aioli can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

→ What can I top the crostini with besides aioli?

You can add sliced tomatoes, prosciutto, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a variation in flavors.

→ Can I make the crostini ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the crostini and store them in an airtight container for a day. Toast them just before serving for the best texture.