First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This may seem backward for aioli, but roasting the garlic is crucial. Take the bulbs of garlic and cut off the tops. Drizzle a little olive oil on them, wrap them in aluminum foil, and roast them for about 30-40 minutes. Roasting mellows the garlic's strong flavor, resulting in a delicious sweetness.

While the garlic is roasting, grab a mixing bowl. Add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir them together to form a creamy base. This base is the canvas for your masterpiece.

After the garlic has roasted and cooled slightly, squeeze the cloves out of their skins into your mixing bowl. I usually use the back of a fork to mash them into the mayo mixture, ensuring no lumps remain. The aroma will be intoxicating!

Next, add the cayenne pepper and smoked paprika. These spices provide depth and a hint of warmth, creating an aioli that is bursting with flavor. Mix well, ensuring everything combines smoothly.

This step is key. Give your aioli a taste. You might find it needs a touch more lemon juice for brightness or additional seasoning. Cooking is about personal preference, so adjust accordingly.

Finally, once you’re satisfied with your aioli, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you're ready, serve it with your favorite dish and bask in the culinary praise!