First things first—gather all of the ingredients. It’s a simple lineup, but together they create a flavor bomb. I usually like to lay everything out on the counter, which mentally prepares me for cooking. It creates a sense of excitement.

In a medium mixing bowl, I start by adding 1 cup of full-fat mayonnaise followed by ½ cup of smooth Dijon mustard. This duo is where the magic begins. The mayonnaise provides that creamy base, and the mustard kicks things off with its distinct sharpness. I whisk them together until they form a uniform mixture.

Next, it’s time to add sweetness. I pour ½ cup of raw honey into the bowl. If you’ve never used raw honey before, get ready to enjoy its slightly floral notes. With my whisk in hand, I blend it into the mustard-mayo mixture. The vibrant golden hue is so inviting—it’s hard to resist dipping a finger in for a taste!

Now, we’re going to bring in some zest. I add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for a touch of acidity. The vinegar helps balance the sweetness. Following that, I sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of smoky paprika and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. These little details amp up the flavors and create a rich complexity.

To top it all off, I incorporate 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. It’s the finishing touch that brightens everything up. I whisk it all one final time, ensuring that each component is blended harmoniously. By now, the scent wafting from the bowl is a mix of sweet, tangy, and savory.

Once I’ve achieved the perfect consistency, I cover the bowl and store it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When your guests arrive, they’ll be in for a treat. You might want to double the recipe—trust me; it disappears quickly!