Why These Ingredients Work
The mayonnaise gives a creamy base, the pickles and/or relish bring crunch and tang, the lemon juice adds brightness, capers add briny pop, and herbs tie it all together for classic tartar‑sauce flavour. Wikipédia+1
Instructions
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In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped pickles (or relish), lemon juice, capers (if using), herbs, and Dijon mustard.
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Stir until everything is well‑incorporated.
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Taste and add salt and black pepper as needed.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (ideal) so the flavors meld. Serious Eats+1
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Serve chilled alongside your favourite dishes.
Tips for Success
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Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for better flavor.
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Chop your pickles or relish finely if you prefer smoother texture.
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If you find store‑bought relish too sweet, use chopped dill pickles instead for a cleaner taste. Serious Eats
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Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Stir before serving if separation occurs. Downshiftology+1
Variations
Flavor Twists
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Add a teaspoon of minced garlic or shallot for an extra aromatic punch.
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Mix in a pinch of hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy version.
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Use Greek yogurt instead of part of the mayonnaise for a lighter version. Love and Lemons
Dietary Adaptations
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Gluten‑free: All ingredients listed are naturally gluten‑free; check labels to ensure no hidden gluten.
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Lower fat: Use half mayonnaise and half plain yogurt.
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Dairy‑free: Stick with mayonnaise base and use non‑dairy alternatives if desired.
Storage & Serving
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Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5‑7 days. Allrecipes+1
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Avoid freezing — texture will change and may become watery.
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Serve as a dip for fried fish, fish and chips, breaded shrimp, or even as a sandwich spread or veggie dip. Wikipédia
What to Serve With This Sauce
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Crispy battered fish, fish fillets or fish sticks
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Crab cakes or salmon cakes
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Fried calamari or shrimp
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Veggie sticks, potato wedges or roasted veggies
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Sandwiches (especially fish sandwiches)
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per ~2 Tbsp)
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Calories: ~80 kcal (based on standard mayonnaise)
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Fat: ~8 g
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Carbohydrates: ~1–2 g
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Protein: ~0–1 g
Values will vary depending on specific ingredients used.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — it actually tastes better if allowed to chill for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld.
What if I don’t have pickles or relish?
You can use finely chopped dill pickles or even cornichons. The key is tang and texture.
Is tartar sauce only for fish?
While traditional with fish, you can use it with veggies, sandwiches, fries, chicken strips or as a creamy spread.
How long will it last?
When stored properly in the fridge in an airtight container, about 5‑7 days.
Related Recipes
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Homemade Remoulade Sauce — a bolder cousin of tartar sauce.
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Aioli variations — garlic‑butter mayo dips for sandwiches and veggies.
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Classic mayonnaise‑based dips and spreads.
Conclusion
This classic tartar sauce is unbelievably easy yet so full of flavor. Whether you’re dipping fried fish, buttering a sandwich, or looking for a tangy companion for roasted veggies — this sauce has you covered. Skip the store bottles, whip this up in minutes, and enjoy the homemade difference.
