There’s something irresistible about a plate of crispy fish and the tangy, creamy touch of tartar sauce that takes it from good to great. This homemade tartar sauce recipe is my go-to for turning any seafood dish into a flavorful delight.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a sauce that’s not only fresh and zesty but also perfectly complements your favorite fried or grilled seafood.
What makes this tartar sauce stand out is its balance of flavors. The tang of pickles and lemon juice adds a bright punch, while the creamy base provides a rich, satisfying texture. I love adding a touch of fresh herbs to give it an extra layer of flavor that makes it even more special.
Whether you enjoy it with a Cornmeal Fish Batter or Crispy Onion Rings, this tartar sauce will elevate your meal. It’s the perfect homemade touch to your favorite dishes, bringing culinary magic to your table.
Tartar Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise try homemade for extra flavor
- 1 Small dill pickle finely chopped (about 3 tablespoons)
- 1 tbsp fresh Lemon juice plus more to taste
- 1 tbsp Capers chopped (optional but recommended)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh Dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 to 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard optional but recommended
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, chopped pickles, lemon juice, capers (if using), dill, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir until well blended and creamy.
- Season: Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Taste and adjust with additional lemon juice, salt, and pepper as needed.
- Chill: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and store in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Store: Keep the tartar sauce tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes
- Customization: Adjust the amount of lemon juice and capers to suit your taste. Adding extra lemon juice can give the sauce a tangier flavor, while more capers can enhance its briny notes.
- Fresh vs. Dried Dill: Fresh dill provides a vibrant flavor, but dried dill can be used if fresh isn’t available.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 kcal |
| Fat | 10g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 190 mg |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Protein | 1g |
Tips Which May Help
Tip 1: If you don’t like capers or don’t have any on hand, you can use chopped green olives or dill pickles as a substitute. They will give a similar tangy flavor.
Tip 2: Tartar sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Tip 3: Homemade mayo can add a richer flavor, but you can use store-bought mayonnaise. It will still make a tasty tartar sauce.