Easy Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe

Creating the perfect tartar sauce at home is easier than you think,and the result is miles better than anything store-bought. This creamy, tangy condiment elevates seafood with its bright flavors, fresh ingredients, and velvety texture. Whether you’re serving golden fried fish, crispy shrimp, or a classic fish sandwich, this homemade tartar sauce adds the signature finishing touch. Crafted by an expert chef, this version focuses on balance, freshness, and restaurant-quality flavor in every spoonful.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp finely chopped dill pickles or cornichons
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp finely minced shallots
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp capers, rinsed and chopped
• ½ tsp sugar (optional, for balance)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base

In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise as the base of the sauce. Ensure it’s smooth and at room temperature for best mixing.

2. Add Aromatics and Acidity

Mix in the dill pickles, lemon juice, shallots, Dijon mustard, and capers. These ingredients add layers of tang, sweetness, and savory depth.

3. Fold in Fresh Herbs

Stir in the chopped dill gently so the herb’s delicate flavor stays bright and fresh.

4. Season and Balance

Add sugar if needed, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the flavors until everything feels balanced—tangy, creamy, and slightly sharp.

5. Rest for Best Flavor

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows flavors to bloom and combine beautifully.

Cook Time

Total: 10 minutes
Prep: 10 minutes
Bake: None

Servings

Makes approximately 1¼ cups

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

• Calories: 110
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Sodium: varies depending on pickles and capers
• Sugar: less than 1g

Storage Instructions

Store the tartar sauce in an airtight glass jar or container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 5 days. Because it contains fresh herbs and lemon juice, avoid freezing as it may separate and lose quality.

Suggestions

• Pair with pan-seared fish, baked cod, fried shrimp, crab cakes, or fish sandwiches.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky depth.
• For a lighter version, swap half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Prefer a smoother texture? Process everything lightly in a food processor.

Seasonal Relevance

This tartar sauce is perfect year-round but shines especially in warmer months when seafood dishes appear more frequently on the table. Its refreshing lemony brightness makes it ideal for summer cookouts, beachside meals, and backyard fish fries.

Conclusion

Homemade tartar sauce brings unmatched freshness and flavor to seafood, transforming a simple dish into something truly restaurant-worthy. With only a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep, you can enjoy a condiment that feels refined, balanced, and tailored to your taste. Once you try this version, store-bought jars simply won’t compare.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make tartar sauce without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and sour cream, though the texture will be lighter and tangier.

Q2: How can I thicken my tartar sauce if it turns out runny?
Add a spoonful of extra mayonnaise or finely minced pickles to help absorb excess liquid.

Q3: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh dill?
Yes, but use only 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh dill, however, gives the best flavor for tartar sauce.