Homemade Tartar Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Tartar Sauce is quick to make, and it’s far tastier than anything you can find in a jar. With the right balance of creaminess, tanginess, and a touch of crunch from pickles, this sauce complements fried or grilled seafood perfectly. Plus, you can easily adjust the flavors to suit your preferences, whether you like it sweeter, spicier, or with extra herbs. Once you try this homemade version, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise (use light mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or white vinegar)

• 1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickles (or relish)

• 1 tablespoon capers, chopped (optional, for extra flavor)

• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Combine the ingredients:

• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped pickles, capers (if using), parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

2. Season to taste:

• Taste the tartar sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to add more lemon juice or Dijon mustard if you prefer a tangier or spicier sauce.

3. Chill the sauce:

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the tartar sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the better the flavor becomes.

4. Serve:

• Serve the homemade tartar sauce with your favorite seafood dishes like fried fish, fish and chips, crab cakes, or shrimp. It can also be used as a dip for vegetables or fries.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: About 1 1/2 cups (enough for 4-6 people)

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes (including chilling time)

Variations

• Sweet tartar sauce: If you prefer a sweeter tartar sauce, add a tablespoon of sugar or a few teaspoons of sweet pickle relish.

• Spicy tartar sauce: For a spicy kick, mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce, sriracha, or chopped jalapeños.

• Herb tartar sauce: Add extra herbs like dill, tarragon, or chives for a fresh, herbal twist.

• Low-fat version: Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in place of regular mayonnaise for a lighter version of this sauce.

Storage

Store homemade tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It can also be made ahead of time and stored overnight to allow the flavors to develop even further.

FAQs

Can I make this tartar sauce ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, homemade tartar sauce tastes even better after it sits in the fridge for a few hours, as the flavors have time to meld together. You can make it the day before and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I use other pickles for this recipe?

Yes, you can use sweet pickles, bread-and-butter pickles, or dill pickles depending on your preference. Dill pickles are more traditional, but sweet pickles will add a nice contrast if you like a sweeter sauce.

How do I make tartar sauce without mayo?

You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a combination of both to make a lighter, tangier version of tartar sauce.

How long does homemade tartar sauce last?

Homemade tartar sauce will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week if stored in an airtight container. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before using.

Conclusion

Homemade Tartar Sauce is a simple, versatile, and flavorful condiment that takes your seafood dishes to the next level. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make a delicious, tangy sauce that perfectly complements the rich flavor of fried or grilled fish, shrimp, or crab cakes. Whether you keep it classic or adjust the flavors to your liking, this easy-to-make tartar sauce will be a hit every time!

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