Tartar sauce is a classic condiment that can elevate your seafood dishes, sandwiches, and more. Traditionally made with mayonnaise, this version swaps it out for sour cream, resulting in a lighter, tangy alternative that’s equally delicious. Whether you’re dipping crispy fish fillets or slathering it on a burger, this Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo) will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the details, so you can whip up this delightful condiment in no time.

Why It Deserves a Spot

This Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo) is not only a healthier choice, but it also brings a zesty flavor profile to your meals. The creaminess of sour cream paired with the crunch of dill pickles creates a unique texture that perfectly complements fried foods. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This sauce is not just for seafood; it can also liven up salads, grilled vegetables, and even wraps.

Ingredient Checklist

1 cup sour cream
4 medium-sized dill pickles, finely diced (about ½ cup)
3 tablespoons pickle juice (from the pickle jar)
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill (you need about 9 sprigs (8-inch length) for that)
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground clove
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Toolbox for This Recipe

Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl will do the trick for combining your ingredients.
Whisk or Spoon: Use a whisk for a smooth mix, or a spoon for a more rustic approach.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure a balanced flavor.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for dicing pickles and chopping dill.

Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo): From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Collect all the ingredients listed above, ensuring you have everything ready to go before you start mixing.

Step 2: Dice the Pickles

Using your knife and cutting board, finely dice the dill pickles. Aim for small, uniform pieces to ensure they blend well into the sauce.

Step 3: Chop the Fresh Dill

Remove the leaves from the fresh dill sprigs and chop them finely. This will enhance the flavor of your tartar sauce.

Step 4: Mix the Base

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the sour cream. This will be the creamy base of your tartar sauce.

Step 5: Add the Pickles and Dill

Stir in the finely diced pickles and chopped dill into the sour cream. Mix until well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate the Seasonings

Add the pickle juice, onion powder, salt, black pepper, ground clove, and cinnamon. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Give your tartar sauce a taste. Adjust any seasonings as needed, adding more salt or dill if you desire a stronger flavor.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, refrigerate your tartar sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve with your favorite seafood or use it as a spread on sandwiches.

Make It Year-Round

Versatile Pairing: Enjoy this tartar sauce with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and even as a salad dressing.
Seasonal Variations: In the summer, add some chopped capers or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
Meal Prep: Make a batch to keep in your fridge for quick meals or snacks throughout the week.
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Substitute fresh herbs with dried ones or add a hint of hot sauce for some heat.

Cook’s Notes

This Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo) is a great alternative for those looking to avoid mayonnaise. The sour cream provides a creamy texture while allowing the bright flavors of the pickles and dill to shine through. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to make this sauce your own.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your tartar sauce fresh and flavorful:

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Label and Date: Always label your containers with the date, so you know when it was made.

Common Qs About Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo)

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and will give your tartar sauce a slightly tangy flavor while maintaining creaminess.

Is this tartar sauce vegan-friendly?

This recipe is not vegan due to the use of sour cream. However, you can use a plant-based sour cream alternative for a vegan version.

What can I serve with this tartar sauce?

This tartar sauce pairs wonderfully with fried fish, shrimp, crab cakes, and even as a dip for vegetables or fries.

How long does this tartar sauce last in the fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, this Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo) will last for about a week in the refrigerator.

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Bring It Home

This Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo) is an easy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to traditional recipes. With its fresh ingredients and simple preparation, it’s a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to elevate your weeknight meals, this sauce is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delightful homemade condiment that will complement your favorite dishes beautifully.

Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo)

This Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream is SO EASY! A tangy, creamy dip that’s a perfect complement to your seafood dishes and sandwiches.

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Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Condiment

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 cup sour cream
4 medium-sized dill pickles finely diced (about ½ cup)
3 tablespoons pickle juice (from the pickle jar)
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill (about 9 sprigs (8-inch length))
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground clove
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Method

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients - Collect all the ingredients listed above, ensuring you have everything ready to go before you start mixing.
Step 2: Dice the Pickles - Using your knife and cutting board, finely dice the dill pickles. Aim for small, uniform pieces to ensure they blend well into the sauce.
Step 3: Chop the Fresh Dill - Remove the leaves from the fresh dill sprigs and chop them finely. This will enhance the flavor of your tartar sauce.
Step 4: Mix the Base - In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the sour cream. This will be the creamy base of your tartar sauce.
Step 5: Add the Pickles and Dill - Stir in the finely diced pickles and chopped dill into the sour cream. Mix until well combined.
Step 6: Incorporate the Seasonings - Add the pickle juice, onion powder, salt, black pepper, ground clove, and cinnamon. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust - Give your tartar sauce a taste. Adjust any seasonings as needed, adding more salt or dill if you desire a stronger flavor.
Step 8: Chill and Serve - For the best flavor, refrigerate your tartar sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve with your favorite seafood or use it as a spread on sandwiches.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For longer storage, consider freezing, but note that texture may change slightly upon thawing.
Label your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Tartar Sauce with Sour Cream (without mayo)

Why It Deserves a Spot

Ingredient Checklist

Toolbox for This Recipe