This homemade Tartar Sauce will be your favorite dip at your next Friday fish fry!
In the Midwest, where I’m from, the Friday fish fry is a tradition. To say that we love our tartar sauce is a vast understatement. I’ve always wondered where tartar sauce came from. I assumed it just always existed. Well, some accounts say it can be traced back to 19th-century France, though I’m sure what my local greasy spoon serves is a far cry from what they serve at a fancy Parisian restaurant on the River Seine.
This tartar sauce recipe was made as an homage to all your favorite seafood and fish-fry joints, though I’d wager that it will taste on par, if not better, than anything you’d find dining out. You’ll note how this sauce balances the tanginess of the lemon and mustard with the briny flavors of the pickles and capers. It’s creamy, too, making it the ideal dip for everything from wraps to sandwiches.
Is Tartar Sauce Healthy?
I mean, you wouldn’t want to drink the stuff. After all, this sauce’s primary ingredient is mayonnaise, which is high in fat and calories. The exact nutritional profile will depend on what brand of mayo you buy. If you can, buy organic and free from additives and preservatives. For a healthier take on this recipe, reduced-fat Greek yogurt works as a sub-in. The sauce can be gluten-free, low-carb, keto, Paleo, Whole30-friendly, and even vegan—just check the mayo’s label to ensure the ingredients agree with your diet.
What’s With The Capers?
It’s true that your average American tartar sauce won’t have capers in it, but after trying this recipe, you’ll think it should. Capers, the unopened flower buds of the caper bush, are typically pickled and really give the tartar sauce a briny boost of tangy flavor. Offset by the creamy mayo, these capers perfectly complement the pickles and the tartness of the lemon juice. Give it a try!
How To Make Ahead And Store
Tartar sauce can definitely be made ahead of time. In fact, making it a few hours before serving lets the flavors meld together. Just remember to store it in the fridge in an airtight container. The sauce should last up to 1 week.
Serving Suggestions
Tartar sauce is traditionally served with fried seafood like fish, as well as French fries. Serve it with this Crispy Air-Fried Fish. It tastes just as good as the deep-fried version. These baked Greek French Fries are another delicious spin on the standard fare.
This tartar sauce also pairs wonderfully with Grilled Tilapia or Baked Cod. Try it with Baked Salmon or as a tangy dip for these Easy Poached Shrimp. It’s versatile, so get creative with it!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup dill pickles finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped dill pickles, capers (if using), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, onion powder, and chopped parsley.
- Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, and stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Cover and refrigerate the tartar sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled with your favorite seafood dishes.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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