Tartar sauce is one of those simple yet essential condiments that instantly elevates any meal. Creamy, tangy, and full of flavor, it’s the perfect companion for fried fish, shrimp, or even crispy fries.
Making tartar sauce at home is easy and much more delicious than anything from a jar.
With just a few ingredients and a few minutes, you can create a fresh, flavorful sauce that everyone will love.
Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe
Homemade tartar sauce is creamy with a bit of crunch from pickles or relish. It has a bright tanginess from lemon juice and a hint of sharpness from mustard or capers.
The smooth base of mayonnaise blends everything together, creating a balanced sauce that’s both rich and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons dill pickles, finely chopped (or sweet relish)
- 1 tablespoon capers, chopped (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion or shallot
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional for freshness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the mix-ins
Finely chop the pickles (or relish), capers, onion, and parsley. Make sure they’re in small, even pieces so the sauce blends smoothly.
Step 2: Combine the base
In a medium mixing bowl, add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until the mixture looks smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the flavor elements
Fold in the chopped pickles, capers, onion, and parsley. Stir everything together gently until well combined.
Step 4: Season and taste
Add salt and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning. If you like it tangier, add a bit more lemon juice.
Step 5: Chill before serving
Cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and deepen.
Tips for the Best Tartar Sauce
- Use quality mayonnaise: A good mayo makes a noticeable difference. Choose one with a creamy texture and balanced flavor.
- Add a little sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, replace dill pickles with sweet relish.
- Make it zesty: A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne can add a subtle kick.
- Keep it fresh: Always store homemade tartar sauce in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to five days.
Conclusion
This homemade tartar sauce recipe is quick, easy, and full of character. It’s creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced — everything a great dipping sauce should be.
Pair it with your favorite seafood dishes or use it as a spread for sandwiches. Once you make it yourself, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought version again.