Tartar Sauce

Tartar sauce is one of those things that’s just plain better when homemade. Once you make it yourself, you may never go back to the jarred version. This homemade tartar sauce is salty, creamy and just the right amount of tangy—everything you want in a condiment to serve with crispy fish or fries. With just a few ingredients, this recipe can be whipped up in minutes whenever you want a tartar sauce that tastes fresh and feels effortless.

Tartar Sauce Ingredients

• Dill pickles: The chopped dill pickles add a tangy, briny flavor and a satisfying crunch to the tartar sauce recipe.
• Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise provides a creamy, rich base that binds the ingredients together and balances the tartness of the pickles.
• Onion: Finely chopped onion adds a subtle sharpness and enhances the overall texture with a bit of bite.
• Pepper: A dash of pepper gives a hint of warmth and balances the flavors without overpowering the sauce.

Directions

Step 1: Make the tartar sauce

In a small bowl, combine the chopped dill pickles, mayonnaise, finely chopped onion and a dash of pepper. Stir the ingredients together until well mixed and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Tartar Sauce Variations

• Add capers: Mix in 1 tablespoon chopped capers for an extra briny, tangy kick.
• Use Greek yogurt: Replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of tartar sauce with added creaminess and protein.
• Include fresh herbs: Stir in chopped fresh dill, parsley or chives for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
• Stir in Dijon mustard: Add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard for a bit of sharpness and a creamy, tangy depth.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicier version of the classic sauce.

How to Store Tartar Sauce

To store tartar sauce, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to one week. Be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur during storage.

Can you freeze tartar sauce?

Freezing tartar sauce is not recommended, as the mayonnaise base can separate and become grainy when thawed. It’s best to make a fresh batch to maintain a creamy texture and flavor.

Can you make tartar sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can easily make tartar sauce ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for 30 minutes to two hours allows the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious when served.

Tartar Sauce Tips

Do you need to refrigerate tartar sauce before serving it?

While you can serve this sauce directly after making it, we do recommend refrigerating the tartar sauce for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop. Refrigerating the sauce helps it keep its peak flavor and freshness for longer.

Why is it called tartar sauce?

Tartar sauce originated in France as sauce tartare, named after the Tatars who settled in Ukraine and parts of Russia. The French, in producing this mayonnaise or aioli sauce, may have based the “tartar” moniker upon their spelling of the Tatar name, which was Tartare.

Is there gluten in tartar sauce?

Tartar sauce is typically made of mayonnaise; chopped pickles or gherkins; and onions, capers or fresh parsley, so it should be gluten-free. For those who follow a strict GF diet, always check the label to verify that the mayonnaise you are using is gluten-free.

What do you serve with tartar sauce?

Tartar sauce is a creamy, tangy dipping sauce or condiment that pairs well with seafood, especially fish fry recipes like fish and chips. Try homemade tartar sauce with fish sticks, crab cakes, salmon patties or fried oysters. But you don’t have to stick to seafood. Tartar sauce works as a spread for a sandwich or burger or as a dip for fresh vegetables or pita chips. You can also use your tartar sauce as a condiment for crispy fried chicken.