Trader Joe's Garlic Spread Recipe
Elaine Gordon
Before we dive into the magic of Trader Joe's Garlic Spread, let’s chat about what you can pair it with.
Prep Time 20 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 32
Calories 120 kcal
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest to enhance citrusy brightness
- 2 teaspoons coarse Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper for a subtle warmth
- 1 cup fresh garlic cloves peeled
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 cups light neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola)
Start with peeling the garlic cloves. Since you’ll need one cup, you might feel as though you’re preparing for a small garlic army. Fear not; the resulting spread will be the hero of your kitchen!
Place the peeled garlic cloves into a food processor. Pulse them until the garlic is finely minced. Take a moment to inhale that wonderful aroma. You’re halfway there.
Pour in ½ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add 2 teaspoons of coarse kosher salt too. Blend until everything is combined. The salt will enhance the garlic’s natural flavor.
Now, the key is to gently stream in the light oil while the processor is running. This process emulsifies the ingredients, creating a smooth, creamy texture. Take your time and watch as it comes together.
Once blended, taste your spread. You may want to adjust the seasoning slightly by adding more salt or lemon juice according to your preference.
Transfer your homemade garlic spread into an airtight container. You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge to develop even more flavor.
- Use Fresh Garlic
The fresher the garlic, the better your spread will taste.
- Citrus Zing
Adding lemon zest not only offers a flavor boost but also enhances the overall freshness.
- Oil Choices Matter
A lighter oil works best. Opt for neutral ones like canola or vegetable oil, as they don't overpower the garlic.
- Blend Slowly
When adding oil, do so slowly. This helps with emulsion and keeps the spread creamy.
- Refrigerate for Flavor
Allow the spread to chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This resting time allows the flavors to deepen and blend beautifully.
Calories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 2gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 1.5gSodium: 180mg
Keyword Trader joe's garlic spread recipe