Best Vegan Tartar Sauce Recipe for Delicious Plant-Based Meals

Updated On: October 7, 2025

If you’re looking for a creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious vegan tartar sauce, you’ve come to the right place! This best vegan tartar sauce recipe is a perfect blend of classic flavors with a plant-based twist that complements everything from crispy fries to vegan fish sticks.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this sauce is incredibly easy to whip up and uses wholesome, simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

With its rich texture and bright, zesty notes, this vegan tartar sauce will quickly become your go-to condiment. It’s ideal for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or even as a flavorful dip for snacks.

Plus, it’s free from eggs, dairy, and any animal products, making it suitable for anyone following a vegan lifestyle or those with dietary restrictions. Let’s dive into how to make this luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan tartar sauce nails the perfect balance of tanginess, creaminess, and crunch. It’s:

  • Quick and easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required.
  • Customizable: Adjust the herbs and pickles to suit your taste.
  • Healthier: Made with wholesome ingredients, no cholesterol or dairy.
  • Versatile: Perfect on sandwiches, wraps, salads, or as a dip.
  • Long-lasting: Keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to add a fresh, vibrant touch to your meals without any guilt or compromise on flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles (or cornichons)
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped capers
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh dill (optional, but recommended)
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional for extra tang)

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Sharp knife and chopping board
  • Small whisk or fork
  • Storage container with lid (for refrigerating)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Finely chop the dill pickles, capers, parsley, and dill. Mince the garlic clove as finely as possible to avoid overpowering the sauce.
  2. Combine the base: In a mixing bowl, add the vegan mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the flavor components: Stir in the chopped pickles, capers, parsley, dill, and minced garlic. Mix well to evenly distribute all the ingredients.
  4. Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper gradually, tasting as you go. Adjust lemon juice or vinegar if you want it tangier.
  5. Chill: Cover the bowl or transfer the tartar sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
  6. Serve and enjoy: Use as a dip, spread, or sauce with your favorite vegan dishes.

Tips & Variations

“For a smoother sauce, pulse the pickles and capers in a food processor before mixing. You can also swap out the vegan mayo for a homemade cashew cream for a nutty twist!”

  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Herb swaps: Try substituting fresh dill with tarragon or chives for a different flavor profile.
  • Use kala namak: A pinch of black salt can add an umami and slightly eggy flavor.
  • Make it oil-free: Use silken tofu blended with lemon juice and mustard instead of vegan mayo.
  • Storage: Keeps for up to 7 days in the fridge; always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount Per Serving (2 tbsp)
Calories 70
Fat 6g
Saturated Fat 0.5g
Carbohydrates 2g
Fiber 0.5g
Sugar 0.5g
Protein 0.3g
Sodium 180mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegan tartar sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try it with:

  • Vegan fish sticks or battered tofu for a classic combo
  • Crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for a delicious dip
  • Sandwiches and wraps to add a creamy zing
  • Grilled or roasted vegetables for a bright flavor boost
  • As a topping for vegan burgers or sliders

For a full meal experience, pair your tartar sauce with a bowl of hearty soup like a Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe or treat yourself to a sweet finish with a delightful Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

Conclusion

This best vegan tartar sauce recipe is a game-changer for anyone craving that classic tartar taste without the animal products. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with fresh flavors, and incredibly adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.

You’ll love how it brightens up your meals and adds that perfect creamy, tangy touch that’s often missing in vegan condiments.

Whether you’re serving it alongside crispy fries, slathering it on a sandwich, or adding it to your favorite plant-based seafood alternative, this tartar sauce will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the herbs and spices to make it truly your own. For more delicious vegan recipes to complement your meals, check out our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the indulgent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.

Enjoy your homemade vegan tartar sauce and happy cooking!

📖 Recipe Card: Best Vegan Tartar Sauce Recipe

Description: A creamy and tangy vegan tartar sauce perfect for dipping or spreading. Made with simple plant-based ingredients for a delicious, allergy-friendly condiment.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT0M
Total Time: PT10M

Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped capers
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine vegan mayonnaise, dill pickles, and capers.
  2. Add chopped parsley, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
  3. Mix in garlic powder and onion powder.
  4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  5. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Nutrition: Calories: 50 | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 1g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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