Salsa De Ajo Recipe | Garlic Butter Sauce

Craving the bold and creamy flavors of South America? My Salsa de Ajo recipe is a delicious Colombian garlic sauce that instantly elevates any dish. Popular in Colombia and Venezuela, this creamy condiment is perfect for drizzling over arepas, grilled meats, sandwiches, fries, or empanadas. With the freshness of cilantro, the zest of lime, and the kick of garlic, this sauce is as versatile as it is addictive!

Sauce Preparation

Preparing Salsa de Ajo is super quick and easy,  no cooking required! In just 5 minutes, you’ll have a smooth, flavorful garlic sauce that’s ready to enjoy.

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a tall mixing container or blender jar, add:

• Mayonnaise
  
• Fresh cilantro leaves
  
• Minced garlic
  
• Fresh lime juice
  
• Salt to taste
  

This combination is the foundation of Salsa de Ajo’s creamy, garlicky flavor.

Step 2: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender or regular blender, blend the ingredients thoroughly until the cilantro breaks down into tiny green flecks and the sauce takes on a pale green, creamy consistency.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Give your sauce a taste test. If you like it tangier, add a touch more lime juice. If you want a more potent garlic punch, add an extra clove and blend again.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Pour your Salsa de Ajo into a serving dish or an airtight jar. It’s now ready to drizzle over arepas, empanadas, grilled chicken, or even fries.

Shaping the Perfect Flavor

Unlike many other sauces, Salsa de Ajo’s magic lies in its balance. The creamy base of mayonnaise softens the sharpness of raw garlic, while cilantro adds freshness, and lime provides brightness. Please don’t skip the blending; this is what creates the smooth, restaurant-style consistency that makes this sauce so irresistible.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Salsa de Ajo

This creamy garlic sauce is one of the most versatile condiments in Latin American cuisine. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

• Over Arepas: The most classic Colombian way to enjoy Salsa is with Ajo and a generous drizzle over hot, golden arepas.
  
• With Grilled Meats: Perfect as a dipping sauce for grilled chicken, steak, or pork.
  
• As a Sandwich Spread: Swap out plain mayo for Salsa de Ajo to give sandwiches, burgers, and wraps a garlicky, herby kick.
  
• Dipping Sauce: Serve as a side dip for empanadas, fried yuca, or crispy fries.
  

Suggested Garnishes

To make your Salsa de Ajo look as good as it tastes:

• Sprinkle a few fresh cilantro leaves on top for a pop of green.
  
• Add a thin lime wedge on the side of the bowl for a touch of color.
  
• Drizzle a hint of olive oil over the sauce for extra shine and richness.

Variations of Salsa de Ajo

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Greek Yogurt Version: Replace half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter option.
  
• Spicy Salsa de Ajo: Blend in a fresh chili pepper or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
  
• Avocado Garlic Sauce: Add half an avocado to the mix for a creamier, more decadent sauce with a subtle earthy flavor.
  
• Vegan Option: Use vegan mayonnaise to make this recipe 100% plant-based without sacrificing creaminess.
  

Pairing Ideas

This garlic sauce pairs beautifully with both traditional and modern dishes:

• Traditional Pairings: Arepas, grilled meats, empanadas, and fried plantains.
  
• Modern Twists: Use as a pizza drizzle, taco topping, or even as a dip for vegetable platters.
  

The versatility of Salsa de Ajo makes it a must-have condiment in your kitchen,  whether you’re making authentic Colombian street food or simply upgrading everyday meals.

Storage Instructions

How to Keep Salsa de Ajo Fresh

Once prepared, store Salsa de Ajo in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5–7 days. Make sure to always use a clean spoon when serving to preserve its freshness and flavor.

Freezing Salsa de Ajo

While mayonnaise-based sauces don’t freeze very well (they can separate when thawed), you can prepare a smaller batch if you know you’ll only use it for a specific meal. This way, you always enjoy it at its creamiest and freshest.

Sophia smith

Salsa De Ajo Recipe

This creamy Salsa de Ajo (Colombian Garlic Sauce) is a quick and easy recipe made with mayonnaise, garlic, cilantro, and lime. Perfect for dipping, spreading, or drizzling over your favorite dishes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 8

Course: Condiment, sauce

Cuisine: Colombian, Latin American, Venezuelan

Calories: 110

Ingredients Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 Cup Mayonnaise (full-fat for creaminess, or light for a lighter version)
• 1/4 Cup Fresh Cilantro Leaves (washed and roughly chopped)
• 1 Tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice (adds a zesty brightness)
• 1/8 Teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
• 4-5 Cloves Garlic (fresh, minced, or crushed for maximum flavor)

Video

Notes

Required Kitchen Tools

Making Salsa de Ajo at home is quick and hassle-free. Here are the essential tools I recommend:

1. Blender or Immersion Blender: To blend the sauce into a smooth and creamy consistency.
2. Tall Mixing Container: Ideal for blending the ingredients evenly.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep the balance of flavors just right.
4. Spatula: To scrape down the sides and transfer the sauce neatly into a serving dish or jar.

Having these simple tools will make your Salsa de Ajo preparation smooth and efficient, giving you a silky, restaurant-style sauce at home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Salsa de Ajo made of?

Salsa de Ajo is a Colombian garlic sauce made with mayonnaise, fresh garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. It’s creamy, tangy, and full of garlicky flavor.

Is Salsa de Ajo spicy?

No, the traditional recipe isn’t spicy. However, you can easily make it spicy by adding fresh chili, jalapeño, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I make Salsa de Ajo without mayonnaise?

Yes! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or vegan mayo for a lighter or plant-based version.

How long does Salsa de Ajo last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for 5–7 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.

What can I eat Salsa de Ajo with?

This garlic sauce is incredibly versatile! It’s traditionally served with arepas, empanadas, and grilled meats, but you can also use it as a dip for fries, yuca, plantains, or as a spread for sandwiches and burgers.

Can I freeze Salsa de Ajo?

It’s not recommended to freeze because mayonnaise can separate when thawed. For the best flavor, make smaller fresh batches instead.

What’s the difference between Salsa de Ajo and Aioli?

While both are garlic-based sauces, Salsa de Ajo is a Colombian version made with mayonnaise, cilantro, and lime. Aioli is a Mediterranean sauce traditionally made with garlic, olive oil, and egg yolk.

Conclusion

Making Salsa de Ajo at home is quick, simple, and incredibly rewarding. With just a few fresh ingredients and five minutes of prep, you’ll have a creamy, garlicky sauce that instantly enhances your meals. From drizzling it over arepas and empanadas to using it as a dip for fries, yuca, or grilled meats, this Colombian garlic sauce is a flavor booster you’ll keep coming back to.

Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the fun variations, this Salsa de Ajo recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your blender, some fresh garlic, and cilantro, and in no time, you’ll be enjoying the authentic taste of this beloved Latin American sauce.

Sophia smith

Sophia Smith is a passionate home baker and dessert enthusiast who loves sharing her favorite recipes, baking tips, and kitchen secrets. Through Roses Baking Passion, she inspires others to bake with love and creativity every day.