Speedy Tartar Sauce

Prep: 5 min Serves: 5 Cuisine: American

A quick and tangy tartar sauce featuring mayonnaise, capers, relish, and fresh parsley. Its bright flavors make it perfect for seafood lovers seeking a zesty accompaniment. Simple to prepare in seconds, this versatile sauce elevates fish dishes and adds a flavorful punch to your meal.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon chopped capers
  • 1 tablespoon pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • 1 teaspoon onion juice
  • 2 dashes Tabasco
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Combine mayonnaise, chopped capers, pickle relish, chopped parsley, onion juice, Tabasco, and garlic powder in a blender or shaker.
  2. Mix until well blended.
  3. Serve over your favorite fish.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra tang. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the Tabasco or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can replace parsley for a different flavor profile. This sauce is versatile and can enhance dishes like fish tacos or even as a dip for Marinated Peas.

Serving Suggestions

This tartar sauce is perfect for serving over fried or grilled fish, such as cod or tilapia. It also pairs beautifully with fish and chips for a classic meal. For a light and refreshing meal, serve alongside a crisp Broccoli Spinach Soup or use it as a dipping sauce for roasted vegetables. Consider adding a side of coleslaw to round out your plate.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If it thickens, stir in a small amount of water or additional mayonnaise to reach your desired consistency. Avoid freezing the sauce, as the mayonnaise may separate upon thawing, compromising the texture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Speedy Tartar Sauce contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 597mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).

34 kcal 2% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.7g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.9g 1% DV
Carbs 6.6g 2% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 597.1mg 26% DV
Potassium 61.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.8mcg
Vitamin C 0.8mg 1% DV
Calcium 4.8mg
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this tartar sauce a day ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld together nicely, enhancing the taste. Just give it a good stir before serving to ensure a fresh consistency.

What can I substitute if I don't have capers?

If you don't have capers, you can substitute with chopped green olives or a small amount of finely chopped dill pickles. Both options will provide a similar briny flavor, though the taste will vary slightly. Adjust the quantities based on your taste preference.

Is this recipe suitable for those following a vegan diet?

To make this tartar sauce vegan, simply substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative. Many brands offer vegan mayonnaise that can be used in the same quantity. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, creamy sauce that fits within a vegan lifestyle.

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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