Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it requires only a few simple ingredients and takes just minutes to prepare. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with crispy fish and seafood, while the tangy pickles and lemon juice provide a delicious contrast. I also appreciate how easy it is to customize with herbs and additional seasonings to suit my taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons dill pickles, finely chopped
1 tablespoon pickle juice
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pinch of salt, to taste

Directions

I add the mayonnaise to a medium mixing bowl.
I stir in the chopped pickles, pickle juice, lemon juice, parsley, and Dijon mustard.
I add the garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
I mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
I taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if needed.
I cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
I stir before serving and enjoy it chilled.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

I add chopped capers for extra briny flavor.
I mix in fresh dill for a more herbaceous sauce.
I use sweet pickle relish instead of dill pickles for a sweeter version.
I add a pinch of cayenne pepper when I want a little heat.
I substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise to create a lighter sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store Tartar Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Since it contains mayonnaise, I keep it chilled until I am ready to serve it.

I do not reheat Tartar Sauce because it is intended to be served cold. Before serving, I give it a quick stir to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

FAQs

What is Tartar Sauce traditionally served with?

I most often serve Tartar Sauce with fried fish, fish sandwiches, crab cakes, shrimp, and other seafood dishes.

Can I make Tartar Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it several hours or even a day in advance because the flavor improves as it chills.

Can I use relish instead of chopped pickles?

Yes, I can substitute pickle relish for chopped pickles if I prefer a smoother texture and slightly sweeter flavor.

How long does homemade Tartar Sauce last?

I typically store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week in a tightly sealed container.

Can I make Tartar Sauce without mayonnaise?

Yes, I sometimes use Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

I love making Tartar Sauce because it is simple, creamy, and packed with fresh flavor. The combination of mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, and seasonings creates a versatile condiment that perfectly complements seafood and many other dishes. Whether I serve it with fish, shrimp, or sandwiches, it always adds a delicious finishing touch to the meal.

Tartar Sauce

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Tartar Sauce is a creamy and tangy homemade condiment made with mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, and seasonings. Perfect for seafood, sandwiches, and appetizers, it delivers fresh flavor with minimal effort.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Condiment
Method: Mix
Cuisine: American

Instructions

Add the mayonnaise to a medium mixing bowl.
Stir in the chopped pickles, pickle juice, lemon juice, parsley, and Dijon mustard.
Add the garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Stir before serving and enjoy chilled.

Notes

Add chopped capers for extra briny flavor.
Mix in fresh dill for a more herbaceous taste.
Use sweet pickle relish instead of dill pickles for a sweeter version.
Substitute part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 110 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 180 mg
Fat: 11 g
Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 2 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 0.5 g
Cholesterol: 6 mg