By I used to think tartar sauce was one of those condiments you simply bought at the grocery store.
Whenever I made crispy tofu, veggie burgers, or homemade vegan fish sticks, I’d grab a jar from the refrigerator without giving it much thought. But one afternoon, I reached for it only to realize it was empty. Since dinner was already cooking, running to the store wasn’t an option.
I opened the refrigerator, spotted a jar of vegan mayonnaise, a handful of pickles, and a fresh lemon sitting in the fruit bowl. I chopped, stirred, and tasted as I went, hoping to create something close to the classic version.
To my surprise, it was even better.
The sauce was creamier, brighter, and packed with fresh flavor. The crunchy pickles added texture, the lemon juice balanced the richness, and the herbs gave it a homemade touch that no store-bought version had ever delivered.
Since then, this Vegan Tartar Sauce has become a staple in my kitchen. It takes just a few minutes to make, uses simple ingredients, and instantly makes everything from crispy tofu to roasted vegetables taste even better.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is:
- Ready in just 5 minutes
- Completely vegan and dairy-free
- Creamy and tangy
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- No cooking required
- Perfect for dipping and spreading
- Better than store-bought
- Easy to customize
What Is Vegan Tartar Sauce?
Vegan tartar sauce is a dairy-free version of the classic seafood condiment.
Instead of traditional mayonnaise made with eggs, this recipe uses vegan mayonnaise to create the same creamy texture while remaining completely plant-based.
The result is a rich, tangy sauce that’s perfect for:
- Crispy tofu
- Vegan fish alternatives
- French fries
- Veggie burgers
- Sandwiches
- Roasted vegetables
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon capers, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Chopped chives
- A pinch of paprika
- Fresh cracked black pepper
How to Make Vegan Tartar Sauce
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a medium bowl, add:
- Vegan mayonnaise
- Chopped pickles
- Pickle juice
- Lemon juice
- Dijon mustard
- Dill
- Capers
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Step 2: Mix Well
Stir everything together until smooth and evenly combined.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust as needed.
Add:
- More lemon juice for brightness
- More pickle juice for tanginess
- Extra dill for freshness
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Step 5: Serve
Serve chilled as a dip, spread, or sauce with your favorite vegan dishes.
Tips for the Best Vegan Tartar Sauce
Use Good Vegan Mayonnaise
A high-quality vegan mayonnaise creates the creamiest texture.
Chop the Pickles Finely
Small pieces distribute evenly throughout the sauce.
Fresh Lemon Is Best
Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides brighter flavor than bottled juice.
Chill Before Serving
The sauce tastes even better after resting in the refrigerator.
Easy Variations
Spicy Tartar Sauce
Add:
- Hot sauce
- Cayenne pepper
- Finely diced jalapeño
Garlic Lover’s Version
Increase the garlic powder or add one small grated garlic clove.
Herb-Loaded Sauce
Mix in:
- Fresh parsley
- Chives
- Dill
Sweet Pickle Version
Use sweet relish instead of dill pickles for a milder flavor.
What to Serve with Vegan Tartar Sauce
This sauce pairs perfectly with:
- Crispy tofu
- Vegan fish fillets
- Vegan crab cakes
- French fries
- Sweet potato fries
- Roasted potatoes
- Veggie burgers
- Sandwiches
- Onion rings
- Roasted cauliflower
Storage Tips
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Do Not Freeze
Freezing changes the creamy texture of the sauce.
Stir Before Serving
Give the sauce a quick stir if it has been refrigerated for a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make It Oil-Free?
Yes. Replace the vegan mayonnaise with a creamy oil-free vegan mayo or blended silken tofu for a lighter version.
Can I Use Dried Dill?
Absolutely. Use about one teaspoon of dried dill if fresh isn’t available.
Is It Gluten-Free?
Yes, as long as your vegan mayonnaise and Dijon mustard are certified gluten-free.
Can I Make It Ahead?
Yes. In fact, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
Can I Use It as a Sandwich Spread?
Definitely! It’s delicious on burgers, wraps, and sandwiches.
You Might Also Like
• Easy Vegan Brothy Rice Recipe (Warm, Cozy & Comforting)
• Coconut Lime Tofu Recipe (Creamy Vegan Dinner Ready in 30 Minutes)
• Roasted Vegetable Soup Recipe (Healthy, Easy & Flavorful Vegan Soup)
• Homemade Protein Powder Recipe (Healthy DIY Vegan Blend for Smoothies & Shakes)
• Easy Beluga Lentils Recipe (High-Protein Vegan Meal)
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Tartar Sauce is proof that the simplest homemade condiments are often the most flavorful. With its creamy texture, bright lemon flavor, crunchy pickles, and fresh herbs, it’s a quick recipe that can elevate everything from crispy tofu to veggie burgers.
Once you make this easy dairy-free tartar sauce from scratch, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for the store-bought version. Keep a jar in your refrigerator, and you’ll always have a delicious, versatile condiment ready for your favorite vegan meals.
Nutrition Information (Estimated Per Serving)
Based on 12 servings.
- Calories: 90
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 140mg