This homemade Whole30 tartar sauce is simple to prepare and offers a healthier alternative—sugar-free and dairy-free. It also fits keto and paleo diets and pairs perfectly with all kinds of fish dishes.
Fish Frenzy
I won’t pretend I’ve always been strict about healthy eating. In my pre-paleo days, I enjoyed a fish fillet from the drive-through more than I care to admit, and fish sticks were a childhood staple. What always completed those meals was tartar sauce—tangy, dill-forward, and essential for dunking or spreading.
Store-bought options are rarely free of added sugars or unnecessary ingredients, so if you’re following Whole30 or another clean-eating plan, the best solution is to make your own tartar sauce at home.
This recipe is quick—about five minutes—and uses only a handful of ingredients. It makes a great reason to add more fish to your meals, which is beneficial for both heart and brain health. Whip up a batch and enjoy!
How To Make Homemade Tartar Sauce
Start with a good mayonnaise. You can make mayo at home or use a compliant store-bought brand that fits Whole30, paleo, and keto guidelines. Choose a clean label mayo without added sugar or problematic oils.
The rest of the sauce is built with dill relish or finely diced dill pickles—use whichever you have and prefer. If you can’t find a sugar-free relish, finely diced dill pickles work perfectly. Fresh or dried dill adds the characteristic herbal note. Round out the flavor with whole grain mustard, lemon juice, garlic, and onion powders, then season with salt and pepper.
Preparation is effortless: combine, stir, and chill. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Small jars designed for condiments work well; avoid freezing if possible since the mayo can separate. If you do freeze and thaw it later, re-emulsify with an immersion blender or in a food processor.
Other Homemade Sauces You’ll Love
Whole30 Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce
Whole30 Southwest Ranch Dressing
Whole30 Homemade Ranch
40 Whole30 Homemade Sauces & Dressings
Whole30 Tartar Sauce: Paleo, Keto, Sugar-Free
This homemade Whole30 tartar sauce is easy to make, sugar-free and dairy-free. It’s a flavorful, compliant sauce that complements fish perfectly.
- Prep Time: 5
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1/2 cup
- Category: Sauce
- Cuisine: American
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Ingredients
- 1/2 cup mayo (store-bought compliant brand or homemade)
- 3 tablespoons dill relish or finely diced dill pickles
- 1.5 tablespoons fresh dill, or 1.5 teaspoons dried dill
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth and well blended.
- Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or add extra relish or pickles if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled alongside your favorite fish dishes, or store in the refrigerator for later use.
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