Venezuelan Garlic Sauce (Salsa de Ajo Venezolana)

What To Love About This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need, Substitutions & Notes

Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).

• Parsley, Cilantro, Green Onions: These fresh herbs provide a vibrant green color and fresh flavor base for the sauce.
• Oil: Use a neutral-flavored oil like vegetable, avocado, or canola to help emulsify the sauce and achieve a creamy consistency. I like to use avocado oil. I do not recommend using olive oil as the taste is too strong.
• Water: Helps to thin out the sauce to your desired consistency.
• Vinegar: Adds a tangy kick and balances the richness of the mayonnaise. I use apple cider vinegar, but regular white vinegar can also be used.
• Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and helps to bind the ingredients together. I used vegan (egg-free and dairy-free) mayonnaise.
• Fresh Garlic: The star of the show! Use as much or as little as you prefer, depending on your garlic tolerance. Use as much or as little as you want. I added 2 cloves; for a milder taste, use only one.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and brings everything together. I prefer kosher or sea salt. If you only have table salt handy, I recommend reducing the amount to half.

Process Overview: How To Make Venezuelan Garlic Sauce Step-by-Step

Please check the recipe card at the bottom of the post for exact quantities and detailed instructions (scroll down).

Step 1 – Blend the Herbs

Place the parsley, cilantro, green onions, oil, water, vinegar, salt, and minced garlic (s) in a small food processor or blender. Blend until smooth.

Step 2 – Mix with the Mayo

Add the herbs mixture to the mayo. Mix well.

Step 3 – Adjut Seasoning

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Recipe Tips

Variations & Additions

• Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra pop of brightness.
• Swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Empanadas (our fave ❤️): This is the most used way we serve the sauce with! We usually add a teaspoon or so of sauce per every empanada bite. Delicious! Check out my Empanadas Recipe.
• Arepas: Use it as a topping for arepas, adding a zesty kick to the classic Venezuelan staple. Here is my Arepas Recipe.
• Grilled Meat: Serve it as a dipping sauce alongside grilled meat, skewers, or kebabs for an added punch of garlic goodness.
• Fries & Yuca Fries: Use Venezuelan Garlic Sauce as a dip for crispy French fries or yuca fries, elevating them from ordinary to extraordinary. These yuca fries are to die for!
• Dip & Spread: Use it as a dip for vegetable crudites, crackers, or breadsticks at your next party or gathering. Or spread it onto sandwiches, wraps, or burgers in place of traditional condiments for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Use it as a finishing sauce for roasted Brussels sprouts or potatoes, adding a zesty kick to every bite.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Give it a little shake/mix before using.

Frequently Asked Questions