Tartar sauce is a classic condiment that has been enjoyed for centuries and this particular recipe only uses 3 easy ingredients that you probably have on hand!
This creamy and tangy sauce is commonly served with seafood dishes such as fish and chips, shrimp, or crab cakes. It is a versatile accompaniment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
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Why You Will Like This Recipe
I have been making tartar sauce this way for a very long time and all I use is 3 ingredients. Like this recipe for 3-Ingredient Guacamole!
The traditional tartar sauce ingredients include mayonnaise, chopped pickles or cornichons, capers, lemon juice, mustard, and fresh herbs like parsley or dill. All this recipe uses is pickle juice, chopped pickles, and mayonnaise.
These components come together to create a sauce that is rich, zesty, and refreshing. The creamy texture of the mayonnaise pairs perfectly with my Crispy Air Fryer Walleye, Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwich, Air Fryer Fish and Chips Healthy, or Pan Seared Lemon Pepper Walleye.
Easily Customize! One of the great things about tartar sauce is that it is easy to customize to suit your preferences. You can add ingredients like chopped onions, dill, garlic, hot sauce, or even a splash of vinegar to give your tartar sauce a unique twist.
Some people also like to make their tartar sauce healthier by using Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise as a base. No matter how you choose to make it, tartar sauce is sure to enhance the flavors of your favorite seafood dishes.
Ingredients Needed
- Mayo - my favorite brand of Mayonnaise is Sir Kensington that you can get at Target. Otherwise any jar of mayo will do. The squeeze bottles are always nice.
- Chopped dill pickles - I like to get the dill pickles that come in the clear containers. You can find them in the refrigerator sections at the grocery store.
- Pickle Juice - use this straight from the jar itself.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
How to Make Homemade Tartar Sauce
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish (or chopped up pickles), and pickle juice, in a small bowl.
Step 2: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. (Optional)
Serve chilled with your favorite seafood dishes and enjoy!
Recipe Tip: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. This homemade tartar sauce is sure to elevate your seafood dining experience with its tangy and creamy flavors.
What To Serve With Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce is a classic condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes, particularly seafood. When deciding what to serve with tartar sauce, consider popular options like fish and chips, Air Fryer Crab Cakes, Air Fryer Shrimp Cocktail, or even grilled fish fillets.
The tangy and creamy flavors of tartar sauce complement the rich and savory taste of seafood dishes perfectly.
Additionally, you can use tartar sauce as a dip for Air Fryer Potato Wedges, Air Fryer Frozen Onion rings, or even as a spread for sandwiches like fish sandwiches or burgers.
Its versatility allows you to get creative with your culinary creations and enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite. So, next time you're wondering what to serve with tartar sauce, think seafood and beyond for a delicious dining experience.
How do I store leftovers?
Always store leftovers in clean, food-grade containers. The type of container doesn’t really matter. Use zip lock, glass, plastic, whatever! Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Other Recipes to Try
If you tried this 3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce orany other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you! Follow along on Tiktok @jennarecipediaries
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3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 2 min
- Total Time: 7 min
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Easy
- Method: Mix
- Cuisine: American
Description
Tartar sauce is a classic condiment that has been enjoyed for centuries and this particular recipe only uses 3 easy ingredients that you probably have on hand!
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayo
- 2 tablespoons chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon of Pickle Juice
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and pickle juice, in a small bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled with your favorite seafood dishes and enjoy!
Notes
This is the only base you need for tartar sauce, but if you want to add more ingredients go ahead!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 223
- Sugar: 1
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 9G
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 0g
Jenna says
Right?! You don't need many ingredients to make Tartar sauce. I think I know which pickles you're talking about.
Rebecca Griner says
Thank you! I just want this basic food service type tartar sauce, none of the fancy add ins, they ruin it for me.. Used Hellmans extra heavy mayo since it is the food service weight and doesn't thin out too much, You could add in some egg yolks to regular mayo if you need more emulsifier for the pickle juice, I am partial to Claussen Kosher dills minced. I didn't use sweet pickles, but I just needed you to push me not to over think it and all the recipes on line make a silly mess of basic tartar sauce. I have folowed them ane made some really bad tartar sauce. Less is more,.
Jennifer says
This one is so easy, thanks!