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homemade tartar sauce along side a basket of tater tots.

Tartar Sauce

erynwhalen
This easy homemade tartar sauce is creamy, tangy, and full of fresh flavor. Made with a mayonnaise base, chopped pickles, and lemon juice, it comes together fast and tastes better than anything from the grocery store.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Course condiments
Cuisine American
Servings 15 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles or sweet pickle relish
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion or 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill or 1 tablespoon fresh dill weed
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and stir until smooth.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Chill for 30 minutes before serving.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Notes

  • Pickles vs. relish: You can use all chopped dill pickles, all sweet pickle relish, or a mix. The combo gives a nice sweet-tangy balance.
  • Make-ahead friendly: This tartar sauce tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. If you can, make it the day before.
  • Chop fine: For the smoothest texture, make sure your pickles and onions are chopped as finely as possible.
  • Too thick? Stir in a splash of pickle juice or lemon juice to thin it out slightly.
  • Flavor add-ins: Try a pinch of garlic powder, a splash of hot sauce, or some fresh parsley or chives for variation.
  • No fresh dill? Dried dill works great—start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to taste.