Making your own Tartar Sauce at home is so simple, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the jarred version.
This creamy, tangy condiment takes just 5 minutes to whip together and tastes a thousand times better than anything you’ll find at the store.
With crisp pickles, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon, this homemade tartar sauce transforms fried fish, crab cakes, and even French fries into something truly special.
| Quick Recipe Summary | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 5 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling) |
| Servings | 1 cup (8 servings) |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
Why You’ll Love This Tartar Sauce
This tartar sauce is packed with fresh, bright flavors that put store-bought versions to shame.
The combination of crisp pickles, briny capers, and fresh herbs creates layers of flavor that complement seafood without overpowering it.
It’s incredibly quick to make, requiring no cooking at all. Just chop a few ingredients, stir them together, and you’re done.
You can customize it to your taste. Want it extra tangy? Add more lemon. Prefer a sweeter version? Use sweet pickle relish instead of dill.
Here’s what makes this recipe special:
- Ready in minutes – No cooking required, just simple mixing
- Fresh ingredients – Real herbs and pickles create authentic flavor
- Versatile – Perfect with fish, shrimp, crab cakes, and more
- Budget-friendly – Costs a fraction of store-bought versions
- Customizable – Adjust flavors to suit your preferences
- Better texture – Actual pickle pieces add satisfying crunch
You might also enjoy: Bang Bang Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
This tartar sauce comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients that create incredible flavor.
Each ingredient plays an important role in building the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory notes.
- 1 cup mayonnaise – The creamy base that holds everything together
- 3 tablespoons dill pickle relish or finely chopped dill pickles – Adds tanginess and crunch
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained and chopped – Provides briny, savory depth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped – Brings freshness and color
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill) – Classic tartar sauce flavor
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens all the flavors
- 1 tablespoon shallot or onion, finely minced – Adds subtle sharpness
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances tanginess and adds depth
- ¼ teaspoon hot sauce (optional) – For a subtle kick
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
You’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools to make this tartar sauce. Having everything ready before you start makes the process even smoother.
- Small mixing bowl – For combining all ingredients
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – For chopping pickles, capers, and herbs
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate measurements
- Whisk or spoon – For mixing ingredients together
- Airtight container – For storing the finished sauce
Recommended Products for This Recipe
I’ve tested countless kitchen tools over the years, and these are the products that consistently deliver great results when making tartar sauce and other condiments.
1. OXO Good Grips Cutting Board
A quality cutting board makes chopping herbs, pickles, and capers so much easier.
This one has a non-slip surface that stays put while you work, and the juice groove catches any pickle brine or lemon juice. It’s dishwasher safe and won’t dull your knives.
2. Wusthof Classic Chef’s Knife
A sharp knife is essential for finely mincing shallots and chopping fresh herbs without bruising them.
This knife holds its edge beautifully and makes prep work quick and precise. You’ll use it for every recipe you make.
3. Glass Food Storage Containers
Glass containers are perfect for storing tartar sauce because they don’t absorb odors or stains like plastic can.
The airtight lids keep your sauce fresh for up to a week, and you can see exactly what’s inside. They’re microwave and dishwasher safe too.
4. Microplane Zester
While this recipe calls for lemon juice, I also love adding a bit of lemon zest for extra brightness.
A microplane makes zesting citrus effortless, and you can also use it for garlic and fresh ginger in other recipes.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Tartar Sauce
Making tartar sauce from scratch is incredibly easy. Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect condiment for your seafood dishes.
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Drain the capers well and chop them into smaller pieces
- If using whole dill pickles instead of relish, finely chop them until you have about 3 tablespoons
- Mince the shallot or onion as finely as possible
- Wash and thoroughly dry the fresh parsley and dill, then chop them finely
- Juice the lemon, straining out any seeds
2. Combine the Base Ingredients
- Add the mayonnaise to your mixing bowl
- Add the Dijon mustard and whisk them together until smooth
- This creates a creamy, well-blended base for the other ingredients
3. Add the Pickled and Fresh Ingredients
- Stir in the dill pickle relish (or chopped pickles)
- Add the chopped capers
- Mix in the minced shallot or onion
- Add the lemon juice and stir well
- The acid from the pickles and lemon will help balance the richness of the mayonnaise
4. Incorporate the Fresh Herbs
- Fold in the chopped fresh parsley
- Add the fresh dill (or dried dill if using)
- Stir gently to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the sauce
- The herbs should be well incorporated but not overmixed
5. Season and Adjust
- Add hot sauce if you’d like a subtle kick
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed
- You might want more lemon juice for tanginess or more pickles for crunch
- Remember that flavors will develop as the sauce chills
6. Chill and Serve
- Transfer the tartar sauce to an airtight container
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving
- This resting time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully
- The sauce will thicken slightly as it chills
- Serve cold alongside your favorite seafood dishes
Read Also: Garlic Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Tips for The Best Tartar Sauce
These expert tips will help you create restaurant-quality tartar sauce every single time. Small details make a big difference in the final flavor and texture.
- Use quality mayonnaise – The mayo is the base of this sauce, so choose one you genuinely enjoy eating
- Chop ingredients finely – Smaller pieces distribute flavor better and create a smoother texture
- Don’t skip the resting time – Chilling for 30 minutes allows flavors to blend and develop
- Adjust to your taste – Add more pickles for tanginess, more herbs for freshness, or more lemon for brightness
- Use fresh herbs when possible – Fresh dill and parsley provide much better flavor than dried versions
- Drain watery ingredients well – Pat capers and pickles dry to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin
- Make it ahead – This sauce actually tastes better the next day after flavors have had time to meld
- Customize the sweetness – Use sweet pickle relish for a sweeter version or dill for traditional tang
Another favorite: Seafood Stew Recipe
Serving Suggestions
Tartar sauce is the classic accompaniment to fried seafood, but its uses go far beyond that. The creamy, tangy flavor complements many dishes beautifully.
This sauce is perfect with crispy fried fish, fish and chips, or fish tacos. The cool, tangy flavor cuts through the richness of fried foods perfectly.
Spread it on sandwiches for extra flavor. It adds moisture and tang to everything from fish sandwiches to regular turkey clubs.
Here are more delicious ways to enjoy your homemade tartar sauce:
- Crab cakes – The classic pairing that never disappoints
- Shrimp – Fried, grilled, or poached shrimp all benefit from tartar sauce
- Salmon patties – A tangy contrast to rich salmon
- French fries – An unexpected but delicious dipping sauce
- Roasted vegetables – Try it with roasted cauliflower or asparagus
- Grilled chicken – Adds moisture and flavor to lean chicken breast
- Burgers – Use it as a spread instead of regular mayo
- Deviled eggs – Mix a spoonful into the yolk filling
Variations of Tartar Sauce
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, try these delicious variations to suit different dishes and preferences. Each twist offers unique flavors while maintaining that essential tartar sauce character.
- Spicy Tartar Sauce – Add 1 teaspoon sriracha or increase hot sauce to ½ teaspoon, plus a pinch of cayenne pepper
- Herb-Loaded Version – Double the fresh herbs and add chopped chives or tarragon for extra freshness
- Sweet and Tangy – Replace dill pickle relish with sweet pickle relish for a sweeter, Southern-style sauce
- Cajun Tartar Sauce – Stir in ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning and a dash of smoked paprika
- Lemon-Caper Heavy – Increase capers to 3 tablespoons and add 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Dill Pickle Version – Use chopped dill pickles instead of relish for more texture and crunch
- Old Bay Tartar Sauce – Add ½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning for a Maryland-style twist
- Vegan Version – Substitute with vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based option
For a lighter option, try: Broccoli Cheddar Soup Recipe
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage keeps your homemade tartar sauce fresh and delicious for days. Since this is a cold sauce, there’s no reheating necessary.
Store tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to one week when properly stored.
- Refrigeration – Always keep tartar sauce refrigerated at 40°F or below
- Container choice – Use glass containers to prevent odor absorption
- Shelf life – Best within 5-7 days, but can last up to 10 days if ingredients were very fresh
- Freezing – Not recommended, as the mayonnaise base will separate and become watery when thawed
- Signs of spoilage – Discard if you notice any off smell, separation, or mold
- Fresh ingredient impact – The fresh herbs and onions limit shelf life compared to store-bought versions
- Stirring before use – Give it a quick stir if any separation has occurred during storage
You might also enjoy: Oyster Stew Recipe
Nutritional Facts
Per serving (2 tablespoons):
- Calories: 196
- Total Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 12mg
- Sodium: 334mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 1g
Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on the specific brands and ingredients used.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
While tartar sauce is a condiment to enjoy in moderation, several of its ingredients offer nutritional benefits.
Understanding what makes up this sauce can help you appreciate it as part of a balanced diet.
Capers are rich in antioxidants and contain quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. They’re also low in calories while adding bold flavor.
Fresh herbs like parsley and dill provide vitamins A, C, and K. Parsley is particularly high in vitamin K, which supports bone health, while dill offers calcium and manganese.
Here are additional nutritional highlights:
- Lemon juice – Excellent source of vitamin C, supports immune function and aids iron absorption
- Pickles – Contain probiotics if naturally fermented, support digestive health
- Shallots – Rich in antioxidants and compounds that may support heart health
- Mustard – Contains selenium and magnesium, may have anti-inflammatory properties
- Mayonnaise – Provides vitamin E and healthy fats when made with quality oils
Read Also: Chicken Chesapeake Recipe
FAQs About Tartar Sauce
1. Can I make tartar sauce without capers?
Yes, you can skip the capers if you don’t have them on hand. However, they add a distinctive briny flavor that’s traditional to tartar sauce.
If omitting them, consider adding an extra tablespoon of chopped pickles to maintain the tangy, salty balance.
2. What’s the difference between tartar sauce and mayonnaise?
Tartar sauce is mayonnaise-based but includes pickles, capers, lemon juice, and herbs.
These additions create a tangy, chunky condiment specifically designed to complement seafood, while plain mayonnaise is smooth and milder.
3. Can I use sweet relish instead of dill relish?
You can use sweet relish for a sweeter, less traditional version. Some people prefer this sweeter style, especially in Southern cooking.
Keep in mind that it will significantly change the flavor profile of your sauce.
4. How do I make tartar sauce thicker?
If your tartar sauce is too thin, drain the pickles and capers more thoroughly before adding them.
You can also add an extra tablespoon or two of mayonnaise to thicken it up without diluting the flavor.
5. Why does my homemade tartar sauce taste better than store-bought?
Homemade tartar sauce tastes better because it uses fresh ingredients and real herbs.
Store-bought versions often contain preservatives, stabilizers, and artificial flavors that can’t compare to the bright, fresh taste of ingredients you’ve just chopped.
Easy Tartar Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise 240ml
- 3 tablespoons dill pickle relish 45ml, or finely chopped dill pickles
- 2 tablespoons capers 30ml, drained and chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill finely chopped, or 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice 15ml, from about half a lemon
- 1 tablespoon shallot finely minced, or use onion
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 5ml
- 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce optional, for a subtle kick
- salt and black pepper to taste
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Chef’s knife and cutting board For chopping ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Airtight container For storage
Method
- Drain the capers well and chop them into smaller pieces. If using whole dill pickles instead of relish, finely chop them until you have about 3 tablespoons.
- Add the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to your mixing bowl and whisk them together until smooth. This creates a creamy, well-blended base for the other ingredients.
- Stir in the dill pickle relish, chopped capers, minced shallot, and lemon juice. Mix well to combine all the pickled ingredients evenly throughout the mayonnaise base.
- Fold in the chopped fresh parsley and dill, stirring gently to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the sauce without overmixing.
- Add hot sauce if desired, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed, remembering that flavors will develop as the sauce chills.
- Transfer the tartar sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use quality mayonnaise as it’s the base of this sauce – choose one you genuinely enjoy eating
- Chop all ingredients finely for better flavor distribution and smoother texture
- Don’t skip the 30-minute chilling time – it allows flavors to blend and develop properly
- Drain watery ingredients like capers and pickles well to prevent the sauce from becoming too thin
- This sauce actually tastes better the next day after flavors have had time to meld
- For a sweeter version, use sweet pickle relish instead of dill relish
- Add more lemon juice for extra tanginess or more pickles for additional crunch
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days
- Fresh herbs provide much better flavor than dried versions, but you can substitute 1 teaspoon dried dill if needed
- For a spicier version, increase hot sauce to 1/2 teaspoon or add a pinch of cayenne pepper
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion
This Tartar Sauce proves that homemade is always better. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can create a fresh, flavorful condiment that elevates any seafood dish.
The beauty of making your own tartar sauce is the control you have over every ingredient. You can adjust the tanginess, add more herbs, or dial up the heat to suit your exact preferences.
Try this recipe the next time you’re serving fish, crab cakes, or even French fries. Once you taste the difference fresh ingredients make, you’ll never go back to jarred tartar sauce again.
I’d love to hear how your tartar sauce turns out! Drop a comment below with your favorite way to use it, or share any creative variations you’ve tried.
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