Go Back
Dorothy Thomas

Tartar Sauce Recipe

A creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet tartar sauce perfect for seafood, sandwiches, and fried dishes. Easy to make in 5 minutes with pantry staples!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 8
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: American, European
Calories: 100
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup Mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup Sweet pickle relish (or finely chopped dill pickles)
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
  • 1 tbsp Finely minced onion (or shallot)
  • ½ tsp Sugar (optional, for balance)
  • ¼ tsp Salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper
  • 1 tbsp Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Airtight container (for storage)

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced onion, sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  2. For a thinner sauce, add 1–2 teaspoons of water or extra lemon juice. Taste and adjust salt, sweetness, or tanginess as needed.
  3. Stir in fresh parsley or dill for extra freshness.
  4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  5. Pair with fish sticks, crab cakes, fried shrimp, or sandwiches.

Notes

  • Storage: Keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Variations: Add capers, hot sauce, or hard-boiled eggs for extra texture.
  • Dairy-Free: Use vegan mayonnaise if needed.