3 ingredient tartar sauce is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a kitchen genius. You only need mayonnaise, sweet relish, and lemon juice—nothing fancy, nothing hard. It’s creamy, tangy, and comes together in under five minutes. Whether you’re serving up crispy fish, shrimp, or roasted veggies, this sauce gives your plate that extra zing. What makes it even better? It fits the real-life, no-fuss vibe of every recipe on 3to5Ingredients.com. This 3 ingredient tartar sauce is quick, flavorful, and totally doable. Let’s break down why it’s one of those keep-it-in-the-fridge classics.
Just like my 3 ingredient chocolate mousse, this tartar sauce proves that minimal ingredients don’t mean minimal flavor.
The Story Behind This 3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce
A Personal Memory from Maya
I’ve been making some version of 3 ingredient tartar sauce since I was a kid. On Fridays, my mom would bake frozen fish sticks, and while they crisped in the oven, she’d mix mayo, pickle relish, and lemon juice in a cereal bowl. That little bowl was the best part of dinner—creamy, sweet, tart. Years later, I started doing the same thing, only now it’s become a staple in my own fridge. It’s so simple, but it tastes like something you planned. This 3 ingredient tartar sauce reminds me that homemade doesn’t have to mean hard.
Why This Simple Dish Is Still Worth Sharing
You could find dozens of tartar sauce recipes out there—with herbs, onions, and fancy extras. But this 3 ingredient tartar sauce proves you don’t need all that. Just three ingredients, one bowl, and a few minutes is all it takes. It’s ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute fish dinners, or summer BBQs. Plus, the texture is creamy and balanced, not runny or too sweet like store-bought versions. I’ve served this countless times and it always gets asked about. It’s easy, it works, and it absolutely deserves a spot in your fridge.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Simplicity Wins
Fewer Ingredients, More Confidence
There’s something powerful about being able to make a great sauce without scanning your spice cabinet or running to the store. This 3 ingredient tartar sauce is a recipe that builds confidence. You know what’s going into it, and you’re never overwhelmed. That’s what I love most about these kinds of recipes—they’re stress-free and always feel like a small win. When you can pull out mayo, relish, and lemon juice and whip up a classic dip in minutes, it makes cooking feel more doable. Fewer ingredients means more space to enjoy the process, not panic over it.
Elegant Meals Without Overload
When I think about meals that stick with me, they’re not the ones with twenty ingredients. They’re the ones where something simple, like a sauce, pulls everything together. That’s exactly what this 3 ingredient tartar sauce does. It elevates fish, livens up roasted veggies, and even works as a tangy spread for sandwiches. There’s no need to complicate it. Simplicity has its own kind of elegance—and it’s especially helpful when your fridge isn’t packed or your week’s been long. You’re not compromising flavor by keeping it basic—you’re actually getting closer to it.
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3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce – How to make it Creamy, Quickly
- Total Time: 5 minutes + 1 hour chill
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy 3 ingredient tartar sauce comes together in under five minutes with just mayo, sweet relish, and lemon juice. Tangy, quick, and fridge-friendly—it’s the perfect companion for seafood, roasted veggies, and more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sweet relish
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Combine mayonnaise, sweet relish, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
- Mix gently until well blended.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
- Stir again before using.
Notes
- For a tangier version, use dill relish.
- Letting the sauce chill overnight enhances the flavor.
- Add a pinch of salt or finely chopped pickles for more bite.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauces & Dressings
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Ingredients
What You’ll Need for This 3 ingredient tartar sauce
I still remember standing in my kitchen one Friday night, exhausted from the week, holding a bag of frozen fish and wondering what I could do to make dinner feel less…sad. Then I remembered my mom’s old trick. I reached for three things—mayo, sweet relish, and a lemon. In under five minutes, I had a creamy, tangy, ridiculously easy 3 ingredient tartar sauce that transformed my meal from basic to comforting.
You only need:
- Mayonnaise – for that rich, silky base
- Sweet relish – adds a soft crunch and a pop of sweetness
- Lemon juice – gives it just the right tangy lift
That’s all it takes. No complicated steps. No fancy jars. This 3 ingredient tartar sauce proves you can make something craveable with what’s already in your fridge. And if you’re all about quick wins like this, you’ll also love 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies—another weeknight favorite that delivers with almost no effort.
Smart Swaps & Creative Alternatives
Life isn’t always stocked perfectly, and that’s okay. This recipe works with you, not against you. Here are some no-stress swaps:
- No sweet relish? Use chopped dill pickles or leftover sandwich pickles.
- Short on mayo? Mix in a little sour cream or Greek yogurt—just enough to stretch it.
- No lemon juice? A splash of pickle juice or vinegar does the job.
The key to this 3 ingredient tartar sauce isn’t perfection—it’s balance. You’re not chasing chef-level precision here. You’re making something good, fast, and real. If it tastes right to you, it is right. That’s the kind of cooking we celebrate at 3to5Ingredients.com.
If you’re serving a crowd, offer it next to something fresh like this 5 ingredient guacamole—both dips feel easy yet complete.
Instructions
Quick Steps (Time-Saver Method)
I can’t count how many times this 3 ingredient tartar sauce has saved dinner. I’ll be halfway through baking fish or prepping shrimp tacos and suddenly think, “Wait—where’s the sauce?” Then I remember: three ingredients, five minutes, done. Here’s how it goes:
- In a small bowl, add 1 cup mayonnaise.
- Stir in ½ cup sweet relish until combined.
- Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice and mix well.
- Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
You don’t need a blender, a whisk, or a timer. Just a spoon, a bowl, and a little chill time. And yes—it’ll still be delicious if you only give it 15–20 minutes to sit. I’ve done it. It works.
Full Instructions With Timing & Texture Tips
When you first mix up this 3 ingredient tartar sauce, it might look too thin. But here’s the thing—once it rests in the fridge, it thickens perfectly and the flavors blend into something tangy, creamy, and bright. If you’ve got time, let it chill overnight. It’s even better the next day.
After it’s chilled, give it a stir. Taste it. If it feels too sweet, add a pinch of salt. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of lemon juice. This sauce isn’t about perfection—it’s about making something good with what you already have. That’s always been the spirit of 3to5Ingredients.com.
I like serving this with baked fish, but I’ve also spooned it onto veggie burgers, roasted potatoes, and even used it as a sandwich spread. This 3 ingredient tartar sauce never just sits on the side—it becomes part of the moment. One that feels easy, homemade, and genuinely satisfying.
Step-by-Step
Gathering, Measuring, and Prepping with Ease
I’ve made this 3 ingredient tartar sauce more times than I can count—sometimes while fish is already in the oven, other times just because I need something tangy in the fridge. The beauty? You don’t need to “prep” in the traditional sense. You just reach into your fridge and get going.
Here’s how I usually do it, no measuring cups required:
- Grab a small bowl. Something with a lid is ideal—fewer dishes later.
- Spoon in about 1 cup mayonnaise. No need to be exact.
- Stir in ½ cup sweet relish—let it bring that texture and sweetness.
- Squeeze in 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, or enough to brighten it up.
I like using a rubber spatula here. It’s great for combining ingredients without making a mess. And if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll mix it directly in a little mason jar. Lid goes on, shake it gently, and into the fridge it goes.
Visual Cues & Timing for Perfect Results
When you first stir it up, your 3 ingredient tartar sauce might look a bit loose—that’s totally normal. After an hour or two in the fridge, it thickens just enough and the flavors mellow into something so much better than store-bought.
What to look for:
- A creamy, speckled texture (thanks to that relish)
- Not runny, but not gloopy either
- A slightly chilled, spreadable consistency
My fridge timing rule:
- Minimum chill: 1 hour
- Ideal chill: 4 hours to overnight
- Maximum flavor payoff: The next day—it’s somehow always better
If it thickens too much? A splash more lemon juice does the trick. Too thin? Just fold in another spoonful of mayo. That’s the best part about this 3 ingredient tartar sauce—it’s flexible, forgiving, and ready when you are.
I’ve made this sauce in quiet late-night moments, in the middle of loud Sunday cookouts, even with a baby on my hip. It’s not just a recipe. It’s one of those little life-savers you can always count on.
Creative Twists & Dietary-Friendly Versions
Flavor Variations & Add-In Ideas
This 3 ingredient tartar sauce is a solid standby—but sometimes, I like to play. Maybe you’re prepping for fish tacos, or you want something with a little more edge. The beauty of this recipe is that it invites creativity without losing its simplicity.
Here are a few ways I’ve customized it over the years:
- Add chopped dill pickles for a tangier crunch (especially good with salmon).
- Stir in a dash of Dijon mustard for zip and depth.
- Sprinkle in fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten it up.
- Want a little kick? Add hot sauce or cayenne for a spicy version.
What’s lovely is that the original 3 ingredient tartar sauce still shines through. These aren’t major changes—just easy upgrades that let you match your mood or your meal. That’s the same reason I reach for recipes like our 3-ingredient chicken marinade—they’re designed to be a starting point, not a box.
Vegan, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Sugar-Free Options
Need this sauce to fit your dietary needs? You’re in luck—3 ingredient tartar sauce is one of the most adaptable recipes I’ve ever made.
- Vegan? Use plant-based mayo. It tastes just as creamy and blends beautifully.
- Dairy-Free? Good news—regular mayo is usually dairy-free, but double-check.
- Gluten-Free? Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, just confirm your relish.
- Low Sugar or Keto? Sub in dill pickles for relish to cut the sweetness entirely.
No matter your version, the soul of this 3 ingredient tartar sauce stays the same: quick, creamy, and balanced. You’re still working with real food, not lab-made shortcuts. It’s the kind of kitchen confidence that reminds you—you don’t need a full pantry to make something great.
Serving & Storing Guidelines
Presenting It Beautifully
Even though it’s just three ingredients, this 3 ingredient tartar sauce deserves a spot at the center of your plate. It’s creamy, classic, and adds that little something that makes a meal feel finished. When I serve it, I go for a small glass bowl or a ramekin—it lets the texture show and makes the plate feel intentional, not rushed.
Add a lemon wedge or a sprinkle of herbs if you’re feeling fancy. This 3 ingredient tartar sauce also makes a great spread for sandwiches or wraps. I’ve even used it as a dip for roasted potatoes when I didn’t have ketchup—worked like a charm.
When I’m packing for a picnic or prepping ahead, I pour it into little mason jars with lids. They’re cute, functional, and let this 3 ingredient tartar sauce travel beautifully.
If you’re planning a seafood night, pair this tartar with a cozy side like the 3 ingredient creamed spinach—simple, rich, and ready in minutes.
Shelf Life & Storage Tips
The beauty of this 3 ingredient tartar sauce is that it keeps well and tastes even better after sitting. The mayo base helps the flavors meld over time, and the relish and lemon juice mellow out to create a tangy balance that’s craveable.
Here’s how to store it right:
- Fridge life: Keeps for up to 5 days in a sealed container
- Stir before serving: Mayo-based sauces can separate slightly
- Refresh it: A little lemon juice perks it right back up after a few days
I like to make this 3 ingredient tartar sauce the night before a fish fry or shrimp night. It’s one less thing to think about, and it gives the flavor time to deepen. And unlike store-bought jars filled with mystery preservatives, this version is made from simple, clean ingredients—nothing more.
It’s one of those sauces that finds its way into unexpected meals throughout the week. You’ll keep reaching for it—and honestly, that’s how I know a recipe truly works.
Avoiding Mistakes & Mastering Techniques
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making 3 ingredient tartar sauce is easy, but like any good recipe, a few little missteps can sneak in if you’re rushing. I’ve made these mistakes myself, especially on busy nights when I’m multitasking dinner and homework help.
- Not chilling it long enough: I know it’s tempting to serve it right away, but the magic really happens after resting. Let your 3 ingredient tartar sauce chill for at least an hour so the flavors can blend and the texture firms up.
- Using too much relish: More isn’t always better. Extra relish can throw off the balance and make the sauce too sweet or runny.
- Forgetting to taste it: Lemon juice can vary in tartness. Taste and adjust before serving. It only takes a second and ensures your 3 ingredient tartar sauce lands just right.
These are simple things to catch, and once you’ve made it once or twice, it’s second nature. That’s why this recipe is one of my favorites—it’s low-risk and always delivers.
Rescue Techniques
If your 3 ingredient tartar sauce is too thin, stir in a little more mayo. If it’s too thick, a splash of lemon juice can loosen it to the right consistency. Still not quite there? A pinch of salt or a dash of mustard can pull it into balance without losing the essence of what makes it so quick and good.
Here’s a fun tidbit: tartar sauce has French roots but evolved over time into the creamy version we know today. And this simplified 3 ingredient tartar sauce keeps just what you need, nothing more. No capers, no onions—just flavor, speed, and real-life kitchen ease.
A friend once told me she forgot to chill hers and served it anyway. Her family loved it so much, she never made another version again. That’s what this recipe does—it meets you where you are, fridge chaos and all.
Nutrition Facts & Health Benefits of Mayonnaise
Nutritional Score
Below is the estimated nutritional breakdown for a standard 2-tablespoon serving of this 3 ingredient tartar sauce. It’s based on regular mayo and sweet relish, so values may shift slightly if you use lighter or vegan versions.
Simple Nutrition Table:
| Nutrient | Amount (per 2 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 240mg |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 12g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
This 3 ingredient tartar sauce is rich, creamy, and meant to be enjoyed in small amounts—so even with the fat content, it’s all about balance. Most of the fat comes from mayo, which includes mostly unsaturated fats, especially if you’re using an olive oil-based variety.
Maya’s Personal Note on Key Ingredients
This 3 ingredient tartar sauce works because each part has a purpose. Mayo gives it body and creaminess. Relish brings a sweet crunch. Lemon juice brightens it all up. That trio gives you flavor and texture in every bite—and you made it in minutes.
And the best part? You know exactly what’s in it. That’s always been the goal here at 3to5Ingredients.com—food that feels good and fits your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce
What is basic tartar sauce made of?
Basic tartar sauce usually includes mayonnaise, chopped pickles or relish, and lemon juice or vinegar for acidity. This 3 ingredient tartar sauce keeps it simple and classic with those exact elements. It’s everything you need—no capers, no extras, just flavor and ease in a bowl.
How do you make quick tartar sauce?
Quick is the name of the game here. To make this 3 ingredient tartar sauce, stir together mayo, sweet relish, and lemon juice in a small bowl. That’s it. It takes under five minutes to prep, and while chilling helps deepen the flavor, you can use it right away if needed.
How to make tartar sauce for fish and chips?
This 3 ingredient tartar sauce pairs perfectly with crispy fish and golden fries. The creamy mayo cools the heat, the sweet relish adds crunch, and the lemon juice cuts through the richness. Serve it cold in a small ramekin or dollop it directly onto your fish sandwich for the full effect.
What is Gordon Ramsay tartar sauce made out of?
Gordon Ramsay’s version typically includes more ingredients like capers, herbs, and sometimes shallots. While it’s great for fine dining, this 3 ingredient tartar sauce is your go-to for everyday meals. It’s fast, full of flavor, and built for real-life kitchens, not just TV shows.
Cooking Glossary
Key Techniques Explained Simply
Fold
To fold is to gently combine ingredients using a spoon or spatula. It’s ideal when you want to keep things light or avoid breaking down textures. In this 3 ingredient tartar sauce, folding helps blend the mayo and relish without making the mixture runny.
Chill Time
Chill time refers to how long something should rest in the refrigerator before serving. For this 3 ingredient tartar sauce, even one hour in the fridge gives it time to thicken and allows the flavors to meld together just right.
A Few Terms You Might’ve Heard—Simplified
Mayonnaise is a creamy emulsion made by blending oil with egg yolk and a bit of acid. Relish, a condiment made from finely chopped pickled vegetables (usually cucumbers), adds both sweetness and texture. Lemon juice adds acidity, which balances fat and enhances flavor. Together, they create the simple, bold character of 3 ingredient tartar sauce.
If you enjoy learning about the science behind simple food, you’ll love reading about emulsion, relish, and citric acid. These basic culinary concepts explain why this easy little sauce works so well—and why it holds its own next to much more complex recipes.
Conclusion: Make 3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce Part of Your Everyday Joy
Why You’ll Want to Make It Again
The reason I keep coming back to this 3 ingredient tartar sauce isn’t just because it’s easy—it’s because it works. It fits into busy nights, last-minute meals, or even a well-planned weekend dinner with friends. It’s one of those quiet heroes in your fridge that never tries to steal the show—but somehow, always enhances it.
Whether you’re spreading it on fish sandwiches, dipping fries, or spooning it onto roasted veggies, this sauce shows up with the kind of flavor that feels like more than the sum of its parts. You’ll find yourself making it again, not out of habit, but because it truly earns its place.
Final Encouragement from Maya
You don’t need a long ingredient list or fancy tools. This 3 ingredient tartar sauce reminds us that simple can still be deeply satisfying. Made with less, loved even more.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how you served it—or how you made it your own. Did you add hot sauce? Go full dill? Share your version in the comments—I always read them. Because here at 3to5Ingredients.com, it’s not just about the food. It’s about sharing what works in real life.