The Merman’s Legendary Tartar Sauce

This zesty dill pickle tartar sauce is creamy, tangy, and packed with bright citrus and fresh herbs. Made with mayonnaise, dill pickles, lemon, lime, and fresh dill, this homemade tartar sauce pairs perfectly with fried fish, grilled salmon, crab cakes, and seafood sandwiches. It takes only minutes to mix together and tastes even better after a short chill in the fridge.

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Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: About 1½ cups
Cuisine: American / Seafood Condiment

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• Zest and juice of 1 lime cheek

• Zest and juice of 1 lemon cheek

• 1 tablespoon Merman's Revenge Salmon Seasoning

• ¼ cup dill pickles, finely chopped

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

• 2 tablespoons shallot, minced

• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly cracked if possible)

• Splash of dill pickle juice

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Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.

2. Add the lemon and lime zest and juice and mix well.

3. Stir in the Merman's Revenge Salmon Seasoning, chopped dill pickles, sour cream, fresh dill, and minced shallot.

4. Add the black pepper and a splash of dill pickle juice.

5. Mix everything thoroughly until smooth and evenly combined.

6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

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Tips for the Best Tartar Sauce:

• Let it rest: The flavor improves significantly after chilling for 30–60 minutes.

• Finely chop pickles: Smaller pieces distribute flavor better through the sauce.

• Fresh dill matters: Fresh herbs give this tartar sauce a brighter flavor than dried.

Serving Suggestions:

This homemade tartar sauce is perfect with:

• Fried fish or fish sandwiches

• Grilled or pan-seared salmon

• Crab cakes

• Fried shrimp

• Fish tacos

• Air fryer seafood

Storage:

Store tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving.