Make the best tartar sauce at home with this quick and easy recipe using simple ingredients! This creamy and tangy tartar sauce is packed with crunchy dill pickles, fresh lemon juice, and flavorful herbs, making it the perfect dipping sauce for fried fish, crab cakes, shrimp, and more. Skip the store-bought version and whip up this delicious homemade tartar sauce in just 5 minutes for a fresher, more flavorful condiment. Great for fish and chips, fish sandwiches, and seafood platters!

Ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise*
1 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
1 Tbsp fresh or frozen dill (or substitute with finely chopped fresh parsley)
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp sugar
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
2 Tbsp finely chopped onion (optional)

Instructions:

In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients and mix well until fully incorporated.
Taste and adjust by adding more lemon juice or pickles if desired.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Tips

For a tangier taste, increase the amount of lemon juice slightly.
Let the sauce sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Use fresh dill for a more vibrant taste, but dried dill can be substituted in a pinch.

Variations and Substitutions

Lighter Option: Swap regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light mayo alternative.
Sweeter Flavor: Add a teaspoon of sweet relish or finely chopped bread-and-butter pickles.
Extra Kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

FAQs

How long does homemade tartar sauce last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to one week.

Can I freeze tartar sauce?
Freezing is not recommended as mayonnaise-based sauces can separate when thawed.

What if I don’t have fresh dill?
Dried dill works well too—use 1 teaspoon of dried dill for every tablespoon of fresh dill.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crispy fried fish, shrimp, or fish tacos.
Use as a dipping sauce for French fries, onion rings, or fried pickles.
Spread on sandwiches or burgers for extra flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and Quick: Made in just minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
Customizable: Adjust the flavors to your liking with different herbs and seasonings.
Fresh and Flavorful: A delicious homemade alternative to store-bought tartar sauce.

Enjoy your homemade tartar sauce with your favorite seafood dishes!