Tartar Sauce Recipe
Tartar sauce recipe lovers, get ready to elevate your seafood dishes! This delightful blend of creamy mayonnaise, zesty lemon juice, and a medley of fresh herbs like dill and parsley creates a vibrant, tangy sauce that dances on your taste buds. Perfect for dipping crispy fish sticks or slathering on a juicy burger, this quick and easy recipe is a must-have in your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a batch that’s bursting with flavor and personality, making every meal feel like a special occasion!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents

Tartar Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- 1 medium bowl For mixing the ingredients.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup mayonnaise The creamy base that gives tartar sauce its rich texture.
- 2 tablespoons dill pickles Adds a tangy crunch that elevates the flavor.
- 1 tablespoon capers Brings a briny kick that enhances the overall taste.
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice Brightens the sauce with a zesty freshness.
- pinch salt Enhances all the flavors and balances the sauce.
- pinch black pepper Adds a hint of spice for a well-rounded taste.
Instructions
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped pickles, 1 tablespoon of capers, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Mix the Base
- In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise as your creamy base. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Add the Flavor
- Stir in the chopped pickles, capers, and Dijon mustard. These ingredients will give your sauce that zesty kick!
Step 4: Squeeze in Some Freshness
- Pour in the lemon juice. This will brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Step 5: Season to Taste
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste your creation and adjust as needed. You’re the chef here!
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl and let your tartar sauce chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step 7: Enjoy!
- Serve your homemade tartar sauce with fish, fries, or anything else you love. Dive in and enjoy the creamy delight!
Why You’ll Love This Tartar Sauce Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to whip up in just minutes!
- Customizable to suit your taste—add more pickles or herbs!
- Perfectly complements seafood, fries, and veggies alike.
- Made with fresh ingredients you probably already have.
- It’s a healthier alternative to store-bought versions!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Dipping Sauce |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 0 minutes |
| Total Time: | 10 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With seafood |
Ingredients for Tartar Sauce Recipe
- Mayonnaise – the creamy base that gives tartar sauce its rich texture.
- Dill Pickles – adds a tangy crunch that elevates the flavor.
- Capers – brings a briny kick that enhances the overall taste.
- Fresh Lemon Juice – brightens the sauce with a zesty freshness.
- Dijon Mustard – adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- Fresh Dill – provides a fragrant herbal note that complements the other ingredients.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors and balances the sauce.
- Black Pepper – adds a hint of spice for a well-rounded taste.

How to Make the Tartar Sauce Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious tartar sauce that will elevate your meals!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect 1 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped pickles, 1 tablespoon of capers, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise as your creamy base. This is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Add the Flavor
Stir in the chopped pickles, capers, and Dijon mustard. These ingredients will give your sauce that zesty kick!
Step 4: Squeeze in Some Freshness
Pour in the lemon juice. This will brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing touch.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste your creation and adjust as needed. You’re the chef here!
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and let your tartar sauce chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
Step 7: Enjoy!
Serve your homemade tartar sauce with fish, fries, or anything else you love. Dive in and enjoy the creamy delight!

Pro Tips for Making the Tartar Sauce Recipe
- Use fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a vibrant flavor boost.
- For extra creaminess, mix in a bit of Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Let the sauce chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Experiment with a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
- Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing contrast.
How to Serve Tartar Sauce Recipe
Here are some fun and tasty ways to enjoy your homemade tartar sauce:
- Serve it as a dip for crispy fries or sweet potato fries.
- Pair it with freshly fried fish fillets for a classic combo.
- Spread it on a sandwich with grilled chicken or fish for added creaminess.
- Use it as a zesty dressing for a seafood salad.
- Enjoy it with crunchy vegetable sticks like carrots and celery.
- Mix it into a potato salad for a tangy twist.
- Top your favorite burgers with a dollop for extra flavor.
- Serve alongside crab cakes or shrimp for a delightful appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Proper storage ensures your tartar sauce stays fresh and delicious!
Storing Leftovers
- Transfer leftover tartar sauce to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Place tartar sauce in a freezer-safe container.
- Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Freeze for up to three months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
- Stir well to restore texture after thawing.
- Do not reheat in the microwave; serve cold for best flavor.
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FAQs
What can I use instead of mayonnaise in this tartar sauce recipe?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative or have an egg allergy, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. Both options provide a creamy texture while adding a unique flavor twist to your tartar sauce.
Can I make tartar sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tartar sauce can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve.
How long does homemade tartar sauce last in the fridge?
Your homemade tartar sauce will stay fresh for about 1 week when stored properly in the fridge. Just make sure to keep it in a sealed container to maintain its flavor and freshness.
What can I serve with tartar sauce?
Tartar sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes! It’s perfect for fried fish, shrimp, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. Get creative and enjoy it with your favorite seafood or snacks!
