Go Back
Homemade The BEST Tartar Sauce Recipe photo

The BEST Tartar Sauce Recipe

This tartar sauce is a flavor explosion! Creamy, tangy, and easy to make—perfect for all your seafood dishes!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 4 small dill pickles finely chopped
  • ½ cup flat leaf parsley finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon capers drained and finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Start by finely chopping the dill pickles and flat leaf parsley. Ensure your garlic is minced as well. The smaller the pieces, the better the flavors meld together.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise. This is the creamy foundation of your tartar sauce.
  3. To the mayonnaise, add the finely chopped dill pickles, parsley, capers, minced garlic, and lemon juice. These ingredients will give your sauce its unique flavor profile.
  4. Sprinkle in kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each and adjust according to your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s tough to take it away!
  5. Using a spatula, mix all the ingredients until well combined. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  6. For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the tartar sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • This tartar sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
  • Do not freeze tartar sauce, as the mayonnaise can split and change texture.
  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.