Captain D's Tartar Sauce Recipe
Captain D's Tartar Sauce Recipe made with mayonnaise, relish, mustard, and herbs. A simple homemade dip perfect for fried fish dinners.
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
- Small airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise full-fat for richest texture
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice fresh preferred
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Flavor Builders
- 1 teaspoon finely minced onion
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley or 1 teaspoon fresh
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Optional Enhancers
- Pinch of garlic powder
- Dash of paprika
- Tiny splash of pickle juice
Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare Ingredients
- Finely chop the dill pickles and onion. Smaller pieces give a smoother sauce texture. I like them tiny enough to blend well but still noticeable for crunch.
Step 2 — Combine Base
- In a medium bowl, add mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, and relish. Stir gently until smooth and creamy.
Step 3 — Add Texture
- Mix in chopped pickles, onion, parsley, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go — chefs always taste.
Step 4 — Adjust Flavor
- If you want more tang, add a little lemon.
- If you want more sweetness, add a pinch of sugar.
- If you want depth, sprinkle paprika or garlic powder.
- Step 5 — Chill
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step matters — flavors settle and marry together beautifully.
Step 6 — Serve
- Give it a quick stir and serve alongside seafood or snacks.
- That’s it — your homemade Captain D's Tartar Sauce Recipe is ready.