Fresh N' Grill
All Recipes

Quick Tartar Sauce

35 min 8 servings Easy
Tartar sauce is a beloved condiment for seafood lovers, known for its creamy texture and tangy flavour. This quick version captures the essence of the sauce you find at your favourite fast-food restaurants, without any fuss. Whether you're whipping up a batch of fish and chips or need a dipping sauce for your seafood platter, this quick tartar sauce is the perfect companion. It's simple, delicious, and ready in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

Instructions

1

Combine mayonnaise

In a medium bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise.

Pro tip: Use a good quality mayonnaise for best results.

2

Add relish and capers

Stir in 2 tablespoons of dill pickle relish and 1 tablespoon of chopped capers.

Pro tip: Chop the capers finely to distribute their flavour evenly.

3

Mix in lemon juice and mustard

Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.

Pro tip: Lemon juice adds a fresh zing that brightens the sauce.

4

Season with spices

Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of white sugar.

Pro tip: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to taste.

5

Add salt and pepper

Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6

Chill the sauce

Cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Pro tip: Chilling allows the flavours to meld and enhance the sauce's taste.

💡

Tips & Tricks

  • Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a zesty flavour.
  • Chill the sauce for at least 30 minutes for best flavour.
  • Customize by adding extra herbs or spices to your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a quick tartar sauce?

Quick tartar sauce is a simple, fast-made condiment using basic ingredients like mayonnaise, relish, and lemon juice.

How does this compare to McDonald's tartar sauce?

This recipe is inspired by McDonald's tartar sauce, featuring similar creamy and tangy flavours.

How long can I store tartar sauce?

Tartar sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Can I make tartar sauce ahead of time?

Yes, making it ahead allows the flavours to blend better. Store in the fridge until needed.

What can I serve with tartar sauce?

It's perfect with fish dishes, seafood platters, or as a sandwich spread.

Can I customize this tartar sauce?

Absolutely! Add herbs like dill or spices for extra flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this quick tartar sauce alongside your favourite seafood dishes, like fish and chips, fried shrimp, or crab cakes. It also pairs well with grilled fish or as a spread on sandwiches. Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This sauce can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavours to meld beautifully overnight.

Nutrition per serving

110

Calories

0g

Protein

12g

Fat

2g

Carbs

You Might Also Like

More Sauce Recipes

Sauces & Seasonings

Quick Brown Gravy Sauce

A quick and easy brown gravy sauce perfect for meats and mashed potatoes.

Easy15 min
See the recipe
Sauces & Seasonings

Jehane Benoit's Quick Hollandaise Sauce

A quick and creamy Hollandaise sauce perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Medium15 min
See the recipe
Sauces & Seasonings

Easiest Mushroom Sauce for Any Dish

A simple, creamy mushroom sauce that elevates any meal. Perfect for pasta, steak, or chicken, this sauce is a must-try.

Easy25 min
See the recipe
Sauces & Seasonings

Authentic Maritime Donair Sauce

A creamy, sweet, and tangy sauce that perfectly complements your donair — a Halifax favourite.

Easy70 min
See the recipe
Sauces & Seasonings

Classic Canadian Sauce Rosée

Experience the creamy delight of our Classic Canadian Sauce Rosée—a perfect blend of cream, tomatoes, and herbs.

Easy35 min
See the recipe
Sauces & Seasonings

Super Easy Blueberry Sauce

A simple, delicious blueberry sauce perfect for desserts, pancakes, and more.

Easy15 min
See the recipe

Kitchen & BBQ gear

What we use for recipes like this

See the whole store
Baker's Friend Instant Crepe Maker with Handle, Electric Crepe Maker Machine, Crepera Electrica, 8 Inch Non-stick Cooking Surface, Raspberry Red

Kitchen Appliances · Crepe Makers

Baker's Friend Instant Crepe Maker with Handle, Electric Crepe Maker Machine, Crepera Electrica, 8 Inch Non-stick Cooking Surface, Raspberry Red

$44.51

Ninja Foodi Cold & Hot Blender with Precision Heating Element, 64oz Glass Pitcher, 1400W High-Speed Crushing & Cooking Blender for Smoothies, Soups, Sauces, Fondue – Black, HB150C (Canadian Version)

Kitchen Appliances · Blenders

Ninja Foodi Cold & Hot Blender with Precision Heating Element, 64oz Glass Pitcher, 1400W High-Speed Crushing & Cooking Blender for Smoothies, Soups, Sauces, Fondue – Black, HB150C (Canadian Version)

$179.99

Smash Burger Press

Pit Boss Grills

Smash Burger Press

$14.99

Affiliate links. Prices come from Amazon and are refreshed at least every 24 hours.