Name: Tartar Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 lemon lemon (zest and juice); 0.5 cup mayonnaise; 1.5 tablespoons sweet pickle relish (or diced pickles); 1 tablespoon fresh dill (finely chopped); 0.5 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 0.5 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard; Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Whenever I’m preparing a seafood dinner, my craving for Tartar Sauce kicks in. It’s like a ritual for me. I can still remember the first time I made it from scratch; I was a bit intimidated, wondering if I could replicate that creamy, tangy goodness I always enjoyed dipping my fried fish into. As I gathered the ingredients, I felt a sense of excitement wash over me. With just a handful of simple components, I could whip up a sauce that would elevate any meal. Little did I know, making your own Tartar Sauce is not only easy, but it also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
11 g

Tools Used:
Medium bowl

Why This Tartar Sauce Hits Different

Freshness Matters

One reason I love making Tartar Sauce at home is the freshness of the ingredients. When you use fresh lemon and quality mayonnaise, you can immediately taste the difference. Store-bought versions often have preservatives and artificial flavors that can’t compare to homemade.

Endless Customization

Another beautiful aspect of Tartar Sauce is how customizable it is. You can play with ingredients like dill or add capers if you want a little kick. Each batch can be unique, reflecting your personal taste and preferences.

Quick and Simple

With minimal effort, you can prepare Tartar Sauce in under fifteen minutes. This means you can focus on your main dish, knowing that you’ve got a delicious sauce ready to go without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Parties

I’m always the one who brings the dip to gatherings, and homemade Tartar Sauce has become my signature dish. It’s perfect for casual get-togethers or fancy dinners alike, and the compliments never stop flowing. People appreciate the simplicity and homemade touch.

Healthier Choice

Making your own Tartar Sauce allows you to control what goes in, which is a healthier option compared to commercial brands loaded with unnatural ingredients. Using a high-quality mayonnaise can enhance the flavor while keeping it wholesome.

Enhances Every Dish

Lastly, I love that Tartar Sauce isn’t just for fish. It pairs beautifully with everything from fried vegetables to sandwiches. It’s versatile enough to elevate any meal, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Ingredient List for Tartar Sauce

The ingredients for Tartar Sauce may be simple, but they come together to create a harmony of flavors. The key players, like fresh lemon and creamy mayonnaise, are essential for that perfect balance of tanginess and richness.

1 lemon – Zest and juice of the lemon adds brightness and acidity, crucial for flavor balance.
1/2 cup mayonnaise – The base of the sauce, providing a creamy texture.
1-1/2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish or diced pickles – Adds a sweet crunch and complements the tartness.
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill – Offers an herby note that enhances the overall flavor.
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Provides depth and umami.
1/2 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard – A hint of spice that brightens the sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.

Step by Step Instructions for Tartar Sauce

Making Tartar Sauce is straightforward and fun. Let’s dive into the simple steps that will have you whipping up this delicious sauce in no time.

First, zest and juice the lemon. You will want about 1/2 teaspoon of zest and 2 tablespoons of juice. This step is essential because the zest adds an aromatic layer while the juice contributes acidity.
In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients. Start with the mayonnaise, then add the sweet pickle relish, chopped dill, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon-style mustard. The combination of flavors at this stage is already mouthwatering.
Next, season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with around 1/8 teaspoon of each, but this is where you can adjust according to your preference. Don’t rush this step; tasting as you go is key!
Mix all the ingredients well until you reach a smooth consistency. You want to ensure that the sweet pickle relish is evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Once everything is incorporated, taste the sauce again. Adjust the flavors if needed by adding more seasoning, lemon juice, or even more relish for added sweetness.
Transfer the Tartar Sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate it. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, allow it to chill for a few hours or overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
When you’re ready to serve, give the sauce a good stir. It may separate slightly, which is normal. Enjoy your homemade Tartar Sauce with your favorite fried dishes!

Things Worth Knowing

Storage: Homemade Tartar Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it maintains its flavor well.
Texture Tip: If your sauce thickens too much during storage, thin it with a little extra lemon juice before serving for a creamy consistency.
Flavor Development: The flavors of Tartar Sauce will continue to develop as it sits. Allowing it to rest enhances the taste.
Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality mayonnaise is crucial. Brands like Hellman’s or Best Foods provide the best flavor profile.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Creating the perfect Tartar Sauce can be a personal journey. Here are some tips to elevate your sauce even further.

Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding chopped capers or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick!
Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have fresh dill, try using fresh parsley or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Pairing Options: This sauce is not just for fried fish; try it with chicken tenders or even as a sandwich spread.
Storage: Ensure that your Tartar Sauce is in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor.
Testing Flavors: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings according to your personal taste. A little more acidity or sweetness can make a significant difference.
Freezing: While it’s not recommended to freeze Tartar Sauce, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and mix them on the day you need it.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Tartar Sauce, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas:

Seafood Delight: Pair it with crispy fried fish, of course! It’s a classic companion to fish and chips.
Fried Favorites: Serve alongside fried calzones, onion rings, or even fried pickles for a fun appetizer spread.
Sandwich Spread: Use as a dressing on your favorite fish sandwiches or burgers for an extra layer of flavor.
Potato Pairing: Drizzle over fries or roasted potatoes for a unique twist on traditional sauces.
Picnic Star: Great for outdoor gatherings, Tartar Sauce is a hit with grilled seafood or even chicken dishes.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container, and remember to give the sauce a good stir before serving again!

FAQ

Yes, you can use low-fat mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter version of Tartar Sauce. However, keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess might differ slightly. If you’re concerned about the richness, you can also add a bit more lemon juice to enhance the tanginess.

Homemade Tartar Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate during storage. If it thickens too much, add a splash of lemon juice to loosen it up!

Tartar Sauce is incredibly versatile! It’s a classic accompaniment to fried fish, but you can also serve it with fried seafood, chicken tenders, or even use it as a zesty spread for sandwiches. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor enhance many dishes.

Absolutely! In fact, making Tartar Sauce in advance allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a tastier sauce. Simply prepare it a few hours or even the night before, and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Making your own homemade Tartar Sauce is not just about taste; it’s about the joy of creating something special in your kitchen. With fresh ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a sauce that complements a variety of dishes. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might find that it becomes a staple in your home. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the pride of making it yourself!

Tartar Sauce

The ultimate creamy and tangy Tartar Sauce that elevates any fried seafood dish! Made with fresh ingredients, this sauce is customizable to suit your taste. Perfect for parties or weeknight dinners, you’ll find yourself reaching for this easy recipe time and again!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 5 servings

Calories 120 kcal

Equipment

medium bowl

Ingredients

1 lemon lemon zest and juice
0.5 cup mayonnaise
1.5 tablespoons sweet pickle relish or diced pickles
1 tablespoon fresh dill finely chopped
0.5 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
0.5 teaspoon Dijon-style mustard
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Zest and juice lemon to get 1/2 teaspoon zest and 2 tablespoons juice. Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper (I add 1/8 teaspoon of each). Mix well, taste, and adjust ingredients to your personal preference. Refrigerate sauce (covered) until ready to use. (The flavors will intensify as it sits.) Re-stir before using.

Notes

Note 1: I love zesting the lemon with a fine grater and then juicing with this citrus juicer.
Note 2: Use a good mayonnaise; the better the mayo, the better the sauce will taste. I love Hellman’s/Best Foods®. The full-fat version gives the sauce an incredibly rich, smooth flavor.
Note 3: Heinz® is my brand of choice for the sweet pickle relish. If you don’t want to use relish, finely dice bread-and-butter pickles instead!
Storage: Store Tartar Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be kept for up to 1 week. Before serving, give it a good stir to redistribute the ingredients, as the sauce may separate during storage. If it thickens too much during storage, thin it with a drizzle of lemon juice.