Tartar Sauce is a delightful condiment that can elevate your seafood dishes to new heights. Homemade Tartar Sauce is easy to make with eight common ingredients, and it tastes delicious. You will want to dip everything in it! This creamy sauce pairs perfectly with fried fish, crab cakes, and even as a tasty dip for vegetables. Now, let’s dive into why this sauce is a must-have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Tartar Sauce
This Tartar Sauce is not just another condiment; it’s a flavor-packed addition to your meals. It takes only five minutes to whip up, making it a quick solution for those busy nights. The combination of mayonnaise and sweet pickle relish creates a delightful creamy texture that complements seafood dishes perfectly. Additionally, it’s a healthier alternative to many store-bought options, allowing you to control the ingredients. Also, the fresh dill and lemon juice add a bright flavor that enhances any dish. Whether you need a sauce for seafood or a tasty tartar dip, this recipe is versatile and satisfying.

Ingredients for Tartar Sauce
Gather these items:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons grated yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- dash of hot sauce (optional)
How to Make Tartar Sauce Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Mix all the ingredients in a medium bowl. Taste and season with more salt and pepper, if desired.
- Step 2: Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Tartar Sauce
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sweet pickle relish.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick!
- Consider mixing the ingredients a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld (Method: Mixing).

Best Ways to Serve Tartar Sauce
This Tartar Sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a dip alongside fried fish and chips for a classic combination. It also pairs perfectly with crab cakes, enhancing their flavor while adding moisture. For a refreshing twist, try it with grilled vegetables or as a spread on sandwiches. This creamy sauce can even be a delightful addition to fish tacos!
How to Store and Reheat Tartar Sauce
To keep your homemade Tartar Sauce fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best used within one week for optimal freshness. If you’ve made a large batch, it can also be frozen. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before serving. This easy Tartar Sauce recipe is perfect for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions About Tartar Sauce
What’s the secret to perfect Tartar Sauce?
The secret lies in the balance of flavors! Combining the right amount of mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and fresh ingredients like dill and lemon juice creates a creamy tartar condiment that perfectly complements seafood dishes.
Can I make Tartar Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making Tartar Sauce ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing its taste. Just store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it within a week.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Tartar Sauce?
To avoid common mistakes, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Too much relish can make it overly sweet, while too little can result in a bland flavor. Always taste and adjust the seasoning as needed!
Variations of Tartar Sauce You Can Try
There are numerous ways to customize your Tartar Sauce. For a zesty twist, add capers for a briny flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. For a unique take, try incorporating sriracha for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like parsley for a different flavor profile. You can also create a creamy Tartar Sauce with dill by increasing the amount of fresh dill in the recipe.
In conclusion, Tartar Sauce is a fantastic condiment that enhances your meals with its creamy texture and delightful flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it with seafood or using it as a dip, this homemade Tartar Sauce recipe is sure to be a hit!
With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious Tartar Sauce that will make your meals unforgettable.
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder or Irresistible Thai Red Curry Kabobs. If you’re looking for a great side dish, try Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese.
Print
Tartar Sauce: 8 Simple Ingredients for a Creamy Delight
- Total Time: 5 min
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade Tartar Sauce is easy to make with eight common ingredients, and it tastes delicious. You will want to dip everything in it.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons grated yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- dash of hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients in a medium bowl. Taste and season with more salt and pepper, if desired.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill.
Notes
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 202
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 21 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0.4 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
