When it comes to enhancing a seafood dish or any fish, nothing beats a good tartar sauce.
Red Robin’s tartar sauce is a classic example.
You’ll love its creamy taste with pops of flavor that come from ingredients like capers and parsley.
Remember, letting it sit in the fridge for a bit helps the flavors meld for that incredible taste!
How to Make Red Robin Tartar Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Capers (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp Parsley (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish
- 1 tbsp Honey
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Combine mayonnaise and honey in a mixing bowl.
Ensure they are well blended for a smooth base.
Step 2:
Add finely chopped capers and parsley.
Stir until mixed evenly throughout the mayonnaise.
Step 3:
Fold in the sweet pickle relish.
This adds the sweet and tangy flavor you’re looking for.
Step 4:
Adjust seasoning, adding a pinch of salt if necessary.
Taste before adding to ensure balance.
Step 5:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients like parsley will enhance the vibrancy of the sauce.
A fresher herb gives a better taste than dried.
Chill Before Serving
Chilling the sauce before serving allows the flavors to meld nicely.
You’ll notice a more cohesive taste once it’s cooled.
Don’t Skip the Honey
Honey brings a unique sweetness balancing the tartness from the capers and relish.
Make sure to add just the right amount.
Experiment with Relish
If you prefer more tang, try using slightly more pickle relish.
Adjust this ingredient to suit your taste preferences.
Storing Sauce
Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge.
This will keep it fresh for up to a week, ready to use.
What to Serve with Red Robin Tartar Sauce
Fried Fish
You can’t go wrong with fried fish as a classic pairing with tartar sauce.
The crispy, battered exterior of fried fish works perfectly with the tangy flavor of the sauce.
Serve it alongside some lemon wedges for an extra burst of zest.
Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are another wonderful option that complements the creaminess of tartar sauce beautifully.
The sauce enhances the rich crab flavors and adds a refreshing contrast.
A side of coleslaw brings a fresh crunch to the meal.
Sweet Potato Fries
For a twist, try serving tartar sauce with sweet potato fries instead of regular fries!
The sweet and earthy flavors of the fries make an interesting contrast with the tangy sauce.
This combination offers a fun take on a classic side.
Veggie Sticks
If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider pairing tartar sauce with veggie sticks.
Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks provide a crunchy texture that pairs well with the sauce’s creaminess.
This is a unique and refreshing way to enjoy tartar sauce.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a fantastic pairing with tartar sauce for something a bit unexpected.
The smoky, charred flavors of grilled veggies go hand in hand with the sauce’s tangy notes.
This combination makes for a satisfying and flavorful addition to your meal.
Variations and Substitutions
Add a Sweet Touch
If you like a bit of sweetness, you might consider tossing in a tablespoon of finely chopped sweet pickles or sweet pickle relish.
Freshen It Up with Herbs
Adding fresh herbs can elevate the flavors to a new level!
Consider using dill, parsley, or even cilantro for a fresh touch.
Spice It Up with Heat
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños can spice things up.
Achieve a Creamier Texture
If you prefer a creamier texture, try substituting some of the mayonnaise with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Try a Zesty
Using lime juice instead of lemon juice can add a different zest to the sauce.
How to Store Leftover Red Robin Tartar Sauce
Storing leftover Red Robin tartar sauce properly will keep it fresh and tasty!
Use an airtight container for the best results. This will help maintain its flavor and texture.
Keep It Cool
Place your tartar sauce in the refrigerator as soon as possible. The cooler environment slows down spoilage.
Optimal Storage Spot
Store the container toward the back of the fridge. This area maintains a consistent temperature better than the front.
Check for Quality
Try to use it within two weeks for maximum freshness. If the sauce smells or looks off even before then, it’s best to discard it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Proportions of Ingredients
One mistake you might make is not balancing the ingredients properly.
If you add too much mayonnaise, it could overpower the other flavors.
On the flip side, using too little can make the sauce too dry.
Chopping Technique
Another issue could be with chopping the ingredients.
If the capers or parsley aren’t finely chopped, you might end up with an uneven texture.
Aim for uniformity to blend flavors seamlessly.
Acidity Balance
The lime juice can either make or break your tartar sauce.
Too much can make it overly tangy, disrupting the balance.
Make sure to measure out the lime juice carefully for the perfect zing.

Red Robin Tartar Sauce Recipe
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Capers finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Parsley finely chopped
- 2 tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish
- 1 tbsp Honey
- Combine mayonnaise and honey in a mixing bowl.
- Ensure they are well blended for a smooth base.
- Add finely chopped capers and parsley.
- Stir until mixed evenly throughout the mayonnaise.
- Fold in the sweet pickle relish.
- This adds the sweet and tangy flavor you're looking for.
- Adjust seasoning, adding a pinch of salt if necessary.
- Taste before adding to ensure balance.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
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