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Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe

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4.3 from 10 reviews

This classic Tartar Sauce recipe is a creamy, tangy condiment made with mayo, finely chopped dill pickles, capers, and fresh parsley. It’s perfect for pairing with seafood dishes like fried fish, crab cakes, or shrimp, adding a burst of zesty flavor with a hint of spice from hot sauce and a touch of sweetness from sugar. Easy to prepare and store, this sauce enhances any seafood meal effortlessly.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 1/4 cups

Ingredients

Tartar Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped dill pickles
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped
  • 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or whole grain mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (or to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise, finely chopped dill pickles, chopped fresh parsley, chopped capers, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, onion powder, granulated sugar, and hot sauce. Stir or whisk all ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  2. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper according to your preference. You can also adjust the amount of hot sauce if you prefer more or less heat.
  3. Chill and Meld Flavors: Transfer the tartar sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, making the sauce taste even better.
  4. Store Properly: Keep the tartar sauce refrigerated and consume within one week for optimal freshness and flavor.

Notes

  • For a chunkier texture, use coarsely chopped pickles instead of finely chopped.
  • If you prefer a healthier version, swap regular mayonnaise with a light or vegan mayo.
  • You can add finely minced fresh dill for an extra burst of herbaceous flavor.
  • Adjust the sugar and hot sauce to balance sweetness and heat based on your taste.
  • Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free