About the Recipe
My husband's freshly caught fish needed the perfect condiment and a store-bought version just wouldn't do! This tangy, slightly sweet version is way better than the grocery store version. Made with fresh ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen; this tartar sauce brings the perfect balance of creamy richness and bright acidity that makes every bite of fish taste like it came straight from a seaside restaurant. The secret comes from a dash of hot sauce and Old Bay seasoning, which adds just the right amount of heat and that distinctive coastal flavor. The combination of sweet relish, fresh herbs, and these special touches creates a sauce that's not just a condiment—it's the secret weapon that transforms a good fish dinner into an unforgettable one. Once you taste how much better homemade can be, you'll never go back to the jarred stuff.
Ingredients
1 cup of mayonnaise
Juice of 1/2 lemon
2 Tbs. sweet relish
1 1/2 tsp. ground mustard
1 tsp. Old Bay seasoning
1 tsp. granulated garlic
1 tsp. fresh dill, chopped
1 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped
Splash of hot sauce
Salt & pepper
Up to 1 Tbs. milk
Instructions
Place all ingredients in a bowl and mix together.
Season with hot sauce, salt, and pepper according to your preference.
Add up to a tablespoon of milk to adjust the sauce's consistency to your preference.
Cover the bowl or put the mixture in a sealed container, then refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to enhance the sauce's flavor.
Pair with freshly prepared fish or your preferred seafood. It's also delicious with roasted potatoes!
Store any remaining sauce in the refrigerator. It will last for a few days.
Notes
Hot sauce - My husband's recent hot sauce of choice is Cry Baby Craig's, but use whatever is your favorite sauce!
Old Bay Seasoning - This quindecinnial classic herb adds the right "fresh from the sea" taste! No substitutes!
Fresh herbs - The best flavor comes from fresh herbs. In this recipe, use fresh dill and parsley if at all possible!
