Lemon Tartar Sauce

Prep: 10 min Serves: 1 Cuisine: American

A tangy and creamy lemon tartar sauce with fresh dill, green onion, and lemon zest, perfect for seafood or as a zesty dip for vegetables.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons dill pickle, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons green onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon peel, freshly grated
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a zesty kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you’re out of dill pickles, relish can serve as a good substitute. Fresh herbs like parsley or tarragon can enhance the flavor profile. This sauce is versatile enough to complement dishes like fried fish or even the Raspberry Bombe for dessert.

Serving Suggestions

This lemon tartar sauce is excellent as a dip for fried seafood or as a spread on sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with dishes like Pork Loin With Roasted Sweet Potatoes And Parsnips. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as a topping for grilled fish to enhance the meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to one week. Avoid freezing, as the mayonnaise may separate and change texture. Simply stir before serving if it appears to separate after refrigeration.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Lemon Tartar Sauce contains roughly 150 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value).

150 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.3g 3% DV
Total Fat 11.9g 15% DV
Carbs 11g 4% DV
Fiber 2.1g 8% DV
Sugar 3.2g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 118.5mg 5% DV
Potassium 270.4mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 17.1mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 19.2mg 21% DV
Calcium 62.8mg 5% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Egg

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this tartar sauce vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by substituting mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative. Look for products made from aquafaba or silken tofu to achieve a creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning to ensure flavor balance.

How can I make the tartar sauce spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also try adding a pinch of black pepper or cayenne pepper to enhance the flavor further while keeping the sauce balanced.

What types of fish work best with this sauce?

This lemon tartar sauce pairs well with a variety of fish dishes, particularly fried or grilled options. Popular choices include cod, haddock, or tilapia. Its zesty flavor complements the richness of these fish, making the meal more enjoyable.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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