Tartar sauce is a delightful condiment that enhances the taste of seafood dishes, making every bite unforgettable. With its creamy texture and zesty flavors, this sauce is a staple for fish and chips, shrimp, and more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a casual meal, this tartar sauce recipe is quick, easy, and sure to impress your guests. Get ready to elevate your seafood experience with this simple yet delicious sauce!
Ingredients
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
– 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 1 cup of tartar sauce, serving approximately 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with no cooking time required.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 tablespoon):
– Calories: 80
– Total Fat: 9g
– Saturated Fat: 1g
– Cholesterol: 5mg
– Sodium: 150mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 1g
– Dietary Fiber: 0g
– Sugars: 1g
This nutritional information is based on a serving size of 1 tablespoon.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Gather all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
2. Add 1 cup of mayonnaise to the bowl.
3. Finely chop 2 tablespoons of dill pickles.
4. Rinse and chop 1 tablespoon of capers.
5. Incorporate the chopped pickles and capers into the mayonnaise.
6. Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mixture.
7. Squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
8. Finely chop and add 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley.
9. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Additionally, swap dill pickles with sweet pickles for a different flavor profile, or use fresh herbs like dill or chives for added freshness.
Serving and Pairings
Tartar sauce pairs wonderfully with fried fish, shrimp cocktails, crab cakes, and even as a spread for sandwiches. It’s a versatile condiment that enhances the flavor of many seafood dishes.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It is not suitable for freezing due to the mayonnaise’s texture changes upon thawing. Simply stir before serving again.
Cooking Mistakes
– Using too much mayonnaise can make it too rich.
– Forgetting to chill the sauce can mute its flavors.
– Skipping the lemon juice can lead to a bland taste.
– Not mixing thoroughly can result in uneven flavor.
– Over-salting can overpower the other ingredients.
– Using dried herbs instead of fresh can reduce flavor depth.
– Not letting it sit can prevent flavors from developing.
Helpful Tips
– Use high-quality mayonnaise for the best flavor.
– Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
– Add a pinch of sugar for a hint of sweetness if desired.
– Experiment with herbs to find your favorite blend.
FAQs
Can I make tartar sauce in advance?
Yes, tartar sauce can be made a day ahead of time. Storing it in the refrigerator allows the flavors to meld, making it even tastier when served.
What can I use tartar sauce for besides seafood?
Tartar sauce can also be used as a dip for veggies, a spread for sandwiches, or even a dressing for potato salads.
How long does homemade tartar sauce last?
Homemade tartar sauce can last up to one week in the refrigerator. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container for freshness.
Is there a vegan version of tartar sauce?
Yes, you can make a vegan tartar sauce using vegan mayonnaise, and it can be just as delicious with the same flavorings.
Can I use other types of pickles?
Absolutely! You can experiment with sweet pickles, bread-and-butter pickles, or even spicy pickles for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Conclusion
This tartar sauce recipe is not only simple to prepare but also elevates any seafood dish with its creamy, tangy flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious sauce that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary creation and the delightful compliments that follow!

Tartar Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon capers rinsed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Add 1 cup of mayonnaise to the bowl.
- Finely chop 2 tablespoons of dill pickles.
- Rinse and chop 1 tablespoon of capers.
- Incorporate the chopped pickles and capers into the mayonnaise.
- Add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the mixture.
- Squeeze in 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
- Finely chop and add 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.