Tarter Sauce

Prep: 5 min Cuisine: American

Tartar sauce is a creamy, tangy condiment with a delightful blend of mayonnaise, relish, and lemon juice. Perfect for seafood dishes or as a dip, it adds a burst of flavor and freshness. Its simple ingredients make it easy to prepare and a versatile accompaniment for various meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 2 Tbsp. relish
  • 1 c. mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Blend lemon juice, relish, and mayonnaise together.
  2. Transfer the mixture into a jar.
  3. Refrigerate before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a tangier taste, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a dash of hot sauce to your tartar sauce. If you're out of relish, finely chopped pickles or capers can serve as a great substitute. Adjust the mayonnaise to your preference for creaminess; using Greek yogurt can create a lighter version. This sauce complements dishes like Fried Turkey beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Tartar sauce is traditionally served with fried seafood, particularly fish and chips, but it also pairs well with grilled vegetables or as a dip for crispy potato wedges. For a delightful meal, serve it alongside dishes like Fried Turkey or as a condiment for sandwiches and wraps.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one week. Make sure to stir it before serving again, as some separation may occur. Avoid freezing, as the texture can change when thawed.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tarter Sauce contains roughly 71 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.

71 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.3g 1% DV
Total Fat 5.9g 8% DV
Carbs 4.6g 2% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 2g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 84.3mg 4% DV
Potassium 69.2mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.3mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 5.4mg
Iron 0.1mg 1% 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 tartar sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare tartar sauce a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld together for a richer taste. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you're ready to serve.

What can I use if I don't have mayonnaise?

If you prefer a lighter option or don't have mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Alternatively, you can use a vegan mayonnaise for a plant-based version, which works perfectly in this recipe.

How can I make tartar sauce spicier?

To add some heat, try mixing in a few dashes of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce. For a more complex flavor, finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of smoked paprika can also give your tartar sauce a spicy kick.

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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