Homemade Chipotle Lime Mayonnaise

Featured in: Veggie Bowls & Fresh Salads

This creamy chipotle lime mayo blends richness with smoky heat and a bright citrus kick. The emulsion comes together quickly by whisking egg yolk, Dijon mustard, fresh lime juice, and neutral oil until silky and thick. Chopped chipotle peppers and adobo sauce introduce a subtle heat, while fresh garlic and lime zest provide fresh, zesty notes. After a brief rest in the fridge, the sauce is vibrant and flavorful—ideal for spreading on sandwiches, spooning over tacos, or using as a dip with grilled vegetables. It comes together in just minutes and elevates any meal with minimal effort.

Updated on Thu, 19 Mar 2026 12:39:26 GMT
Creamy chipotle lime mayonnaise with smoky peppers and zesty lime, perfect for tacos or sandwiches. Save
Creamy chipotle lime mayonnaise with smoky peppers and zesty lime, perfect for tacos or sandwiches. | apexdish.com

Homemade Chipotle Lime Mayonnaise is a vibrant sauce that combines creamy texture with smoky chipotle heat and the bright zest of fresh lime. This easy-to-make condiment adds a flavorful punch to tacos, sandwiches, and grilled vegetables, making any dish instantly more exciting with just a few simple ingredients.

Creamy chipotle lime mayonnaise with smoky peppers and zesty lime, perfect for tacos or sandwiches. Save
Creamy chipotle lime mayonnaise with smoky peppers and zesty lime, perfect for tacos or sandwiches. | apexdish.com

This chipotle lime mayonnaise is a perfect homemade alternative to store-bought sauces, allowing you to control the spice level and freshness. Its creamy base and bold flavor bring an irresistible touch to casual meals and elevate even the simplest ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • Base
  • 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) neutral oil (canola, sunflower, or light olive oil)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • Flavorings
  • 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
  • 1 teaspoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Zest of 1 lime

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lime juice, vinegar, and salt until smooth.
2. While whisking constantly, very slowly drizzle in the oil, starting with just a few drops at a time until the mixture emulsifies and thickens. Once it begins to thicken, you can add the oil in a thin, steady stream while whisking vigorously.
3. When all oil is incorporated and the mayonnaise is thick and creamy, whisk in the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and lime zest.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra lime juice or salt as desired.
5. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Use room temperature egg yolk to ensure proper emulsification. Drizzle the oil slowly and whisk constantly to create a thick and creamy texture without the mayo breaking. Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to match your heat tolerance, and let the mayonnaise chill for a minimum of 30 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a milder flavor, reduce to one chipotle pepper or omit the adobo sauce. Add extra lime juice for a tangier twist. Use this mayonnaise as a base to mix in herbs or other spices to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.

Serviervorschläge

This creamy chipotle lime mayonnaise pairs beautifully with fish, shrimp, vegetarian tacos, sandwiches, or grilled vegetables, adding a smoky and zesty kick. It also works well as a dip or spread for your favorite snacks.

Smoky, tangy chipotle lime mayonnaise drizzled over grilled vegetables for a vibrant, flavorful kick. Save
Smoky, tangy chipotle lime mayonnaise drizzled over grilled vegetables for a vibrant, flavorful kick. | apexdish.com

This Homemade Chipotle Lime Mayonnaise is a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, offering a delicious balance of creaminess, zest, and smokiness. Its quick preparation and bold taste make it a staple condiment to elevate everyday meals with an authentic Mexican-inspired flair.

Recipe FAQs

How do I make the mayo less spicy?

Reduce the amount of chipotle pepper or omit the adobo sauce for a milder flavor.

Can I use a different citrus juice instead of lime?

Yes, lemon juice can be substituted for a slightly different tang while maintaining brightness.

Is a blender necessary for emulsifying?

No, vigorous whisking in a bowl achieves a thick, creamy consistency; a blender is not required.

How long can I store homemade mayo?

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and use within 5 days for best freshness and safety.

What dishes pair well with this mayo?

Try it with tacos, fish, burgers, roasted veggies, sandwiches, or as a dip for fries or chips.

Can I make this mayo vegan?

Use aquafaba (chickpea liquid) instead of egg yolk and opt for plant-based mustard to create a vegan version.

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Homemade Chipotle Lime Mayonnaise

Creamy, smoky mayo with chipotle and lime. Brightens tacos, sandwiches, and veggies. Quick and bold spread.

Prep Time
10 minutes
0
Overall Time
10 minutes
Created by Charlotte Rivera


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Mexican-Inspired

Makes 8 Serving Size

Diet Info Vegetarian-Friendly, No Dairy, No Gluten, Low Carb

Ingredient List

Base

01 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
02 1 cup neutral oil (canola, sunflower, or light olive oil)
03 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
04 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice, plus more to taste
05 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
06 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Flavorings

01 1 to 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
02 1 teaspoon adobo sauce from the chipotle can
03 1 small garlic clove, minced
04 Zest of 1 lime

How to Make

Step 01

Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, vigorously whisk the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, lime juice, white wine vinegar, and sea salt until thoroughly blended and smooth.

Step 02

Emulsify with Oil: Continue whisking constantly and begin adding the neutral oil very slowly, starting with a few drops at a time. Once the mixture starts to thicken and emulsify, add the remaining oil in a thin, steady stream while whisking vigorously until thick and creamy.

Step 03

Incorporate Flavorings: Fold in the finely chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and lime zest until evenly distributed.

Step 04

Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra lime juice or additional salt according to preference.

Step 05

Chill: Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

What You'll Need

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Microplane or fine grater
  • Airtight container

Allergy Notice

Please review ingredients for allergens and talk to a medical expert if you're unsure.
  • Contains egg and mustard. Review labels of chipotle in adobo and Dijon mustard for potential gluten and other allergens based on brand.

Nutrition Details (per serving)

These details are for general reference and aren't a substitute for professional health advice.
  • Calorie count: 180
  • Fat content: 20 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 1 grams
  • Proteins: 0 grams

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