There’s nothing like a creamy, tangy tartar sauce to elevate seafood dishes.
This homemade tartar sauce is fresh, zesty, and so easy to make—you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s quick to prepare—ready in under 10 minutes.
Fresh dill, lemon, and pickles add layers of bright flavor.
Perfect for seafood, fries, or even as a sandwich spread.
Tastes better after chilling, with all the flavors blended.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Mayonnaise creates the creamy base.
Dill pickles and capers add tangy crunch.
Fresh dill or parsley brings herbaceous brightness.
Dijon mustard adds sharpness and depth.
Lemon juice and zest keep it zesty and fresh.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use real mayonnaise for best flavor.
Chop the pickles, capers, and shallot finely for a smooth texture.
Let the sauce chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Taste and adjust lemon juice or seasoning to your preference.
Add hot sauce if you enjoy a little heat.
How to Make Tartar Sauce
Step 1 – Combine base ingredients
Mix mayonnaise with chopped pickles, capers, shallot, dill, mustard, and lemon juice.
Step 2 – Add seasonings
Stir in lemon zest, sugar, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce if desired.
Step 3 – Adjust flavors
Taste and tweak with more lemon or seasoning to your liking.
Step 4 – Chill before serving
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so flavors meld.
What to Serve It With
Pair with fried fish or grilled seafood.
Spread on fish sandwiches or burgers.
Serve with crab cakes, fries, or roasted veggies.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap dill pickles for relish if preferred.
Use parsley instead of dill for a milder flavor.
Try Greek yogurt for a lighter base.
Add minced jalapeño for extra spice.
Storage & Leftovers
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge.
Best enjoyed within 5–7 days for freshness.
FAQs
Can I make tartar sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.
How long does tartar sauce last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to one week.
Can I freeze tartar sauce?
No, freezing changes its texture.
Is tartar sauce gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill pickles?
Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and less tangy.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or sour cream works as a lighter substitute.
Does tartar sauce go well with chicken?
Yes, it’s great with fried chicken or chicken sandwiches.
Can I make it spicier?
Add hot sauce, cayenne, or finely chopped jalapeño.
What’s the difference between tartar sauce and aioli?
Tartar sauce is mayonnaise-based with pickles and herbs, while aioli is garlic and olive oil-based.
Why is it called tartar sauce?
It’s named after the French “sauce tartare,” traditionally served with fried foods.
Final Thoughts
Homemade tartar sauce is creamy, tangy, and endlessly versatile.
Once you make it fresh, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the jarred version.
