Ina Garten Tartar Sauce Recipe

This Ina Garten-inspired tartar sauce recipe is simple, flavorful, and the perfect addition to your favorite seafood dishes. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a restaurant-quality condiment that’s better than anything you’ll find in a jar.

If you love classic seafood pairings, then this Ina Garten Tartar Sauce recipe is a must-try. Inspired by the Barefoot Contessa herself, this creamy, tangy, and flavorful sauce comes together in minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

Perfect for fish and chips, crab cakes, shrimp, or any fried seafood, this homemade tartar sauce will make you never want store-bought again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes.
• Fresh Ingredients – Made with mayonnaise, capers, pickles, and lemon for bright flavor.
• Versatile – Complements seafood, sandwiches, and even roasted vegetables.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays fresh in the fridge for days.
• Better Than Store-Bought – Rich, tangy, and perfectly balanced flavors.

Ina Garten Tartar Sauce Ingredients

• Mayonnaise – Creamy base that holds everything together.
• Capers – Briny and tangy, they add a signature bite.
• Pickles or Cornichons – For crunch and zesty flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the sauce with a citrusy kick.
• Fresh Dill or Parsley – Adds fresh herbiness.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – For seasoning and balance.

How To Make Ina Garten Tartar Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Finely chop the pickles (or cornichons), capers, and fresh herbs.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Add the chopped pickles, capers, and herbs. Stir until well combined.

Step 4:Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ina Garten Tartar Sauce Recipe Tips

• Use Fresh Lemon Juice – It makes the sauce brighter and fresher than bottled.
• Chill Before Serving – Letting it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld.
• Finely Chop Ingredients – Small pieces of pickles, capers, and herbs blend better into the creamy base.
• Adjust to Taste – Add more pickles for tang, or extra herbs for freshness.
• Make Ahead – This sauce actually tastes better the next day, so it’s perfect for prepping before a seafood dinner.
• Pair Creatively – Not just for fish—try it on sandwiches, burgers, or as a veggie dip.

Storing Instructions

Store Ina Garten’s tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving, as ingredients may separate slightly while chilling.

Ina Garten Tartar Sauce Recipe Faqs

Can I make tartar sauce ahead of time? Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day once the flavors have blended together.

How long does homemade tartar sauce last? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze tartar sauce? Freezing is not recommended since the mayonnaise base can separate and change texture.

What can I substitute for capers? You can use finely chopped green olives or extra pickles for a similar briny flavor.

Can I use light mayonnaise instead of regular? Yes, light mayonnaise works well, but the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.

What seafood pairs best with tartar sauce? It’s delicious with fish and chips, crab cakes, shrimp, salmon, or even on fish sandwiches.

More Ina Garten’s Recipes

Ina Garten Stuffed Peppers Recipe

Ina Garten Buttermilk Blue Cheese Dressing Recipe

Ina Garten’s Banana Bread Recipe

Ina Garten Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Chicken Divan Recipe

Barefoot Contessa Chicken Marsala Recipe

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