Tartar Sauce Recipe Easy

A well-made tartar sauce is the ultimate complement to seafood, offering a creamy, tangy, and slightly zesty flavor that elevates any dish. This easy tartar sauce recipe focuses on fresh ingredients, precise seasoning, and balanced textures, delivering a sauce that is rich yet bright. Perfect for fried fish, seafood platters, or as a versatile dip, it’s a must-have in any home chef’s repertoire.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
• 1 tablespoon capers, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon minced shallot or onion
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare ingredients

Finely chop dill pickles, capers, and shallot. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix base

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Add flavor components

Fold in chopped pickles, capers, shallot, and dill. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute ingredients.

Step 4: Season and adjust

Taste the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust lemon juice or dill according to preference.

Step 5: Chill before serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled with seafood or as a dip.

Cook Time

Total: 10 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: 0 minutes

Servings

Makes approximately 1 cup

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

• Calories: 90 (per 2 tablespoons)
• Fat: 9 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Sodium: 120 mg

Storage Instructions

Store tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before serving to recombine any separation.

Suggestions

Serve with fried or grilled fish, shrimp, crab cakes, or as a creamy dip for vegetables. It also pairs well with sandwiches, wraps, or seafood tacos.

Seasonal Relevance

Tartar sauce is a year-round classic, ideal for summer seafood grills, spring brunches, or winter comfort food meals.

Conclusion

This easy tartar sauce recipe delivers fresh, creamy, and perfectly balanced flavors with minimal effort. Mastering it ensures a versatile condiment that enhances any seafood dish or appetizer with professional-quality taste.

FAQs

Can I make tartar sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a day in advance. Refrigerate in an airtight container and stir before serving.

Can I make a lighter version?
Yes, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise for a lower-fat version.

Can I freeze tartar sauce?
Freezing is not recommended, as it may separate upon thawing and lose its creamy texture.