So, I wanted to tell you about this Remoulade Sauce because it’s one of those simple little recipes that makes a big difference when you’re putting a meal together. It’s basically a creamy and slightly spicy dip that works really well with seafood, fried foods, or even sandwiches, and the nice part is that it comes together quickly without much effort.
You can make it in just a few minutes, and then it’s ready to use for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack dip when you want something extra on the side. It feels like one of those handy recipes that you keep around because it always adds a nice touch, and that’s why I thought it would be good to start with this before we go into what Remoulade Sauce actually is.
What is Remoulade Sauce?
Remoulade Sauce is basically a creamy condiment that has a little tang and a bit of spice mixed in. It started out in French cooking, but over time people have added their own twists, so now you’ll see it in American kitchens too, especially in Southern food.
It’s most often served with seafood like crab cakes, fried shrimp, or salmon patties, but it also works really well as a spread for po’boy sandwiches or even as a dip for fried foods. The flavor is bold enough to stand out, but at the same time it blends nicely with whatever you pair it with, which is why it’s such a popular sauce to keep around.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Quick to make: Remoulade Sauce doesn’t take much time at all, and you can have it ready in just a few minutes, which makes it really convenient when you’re already busy with other parts of the meal.
Simple ingredients: The recipe only calls for basic pantry items like mayonnaise, mustard, and a few seasonings, so you don’t have to go searching for anything fancy or hard to find.
Easy to adjust: You can change the flavor to suit your taste by adding more mustard for sharpness, extra hot sauce for spice, or a little more lemon juice if you like it tangy.
Beginner-friendly: Since it’s just mixing everything together in one bowl, it’s a recipe that anyone can handle, even if they don’t cook very often.
Works for different meals: The sauce goes well with seafood, fried foods, or sandwiches, so you can use it for lunch, dinner, or even as a quick snack dip when you want something extra.
Ingredients Needed:
When you make Remoulade Sauce, you really don’t need anything complicated, and most of the items are things you probably already have in your kitchen. Each ingredient has its own role, and together they give the sauce its creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor.
- Mayonnaise – gives the sauce a smooth and creamy base.
- Dijon Mustard – adds a sharp flavor that balances the creaminess.
- Horseradish – brings in a bold, spicy kick.
- Cajun Seasoning – adds savory depth with a mix of spices.
- Paprika – gives a mild sweetness or smoky flavor depending on the type.
- Garlic – adds a strong, aromatic taste.
- Lemon Juice – brightens the sauce with a fresh citrus note.
- Pickle Juice – adds tangy brininess for extra flavor.
💡 Note: For the full ingredient list with exact amounts and measurements, please check the recipe card below.
Step-By-Step Instructions to Make Remoulade Sauce:
Step 1: Gather your ingredients
The first thing you want to do is place all the ingredients on your counter so you don’t have to keep running back and forth. Having everything ready makes the process smoother, and it also helps you see how each item will come together. You’ll notice the mix looks simple, but once combined, the flavors really balance each other out.
Step 2: Mix the base
Start by adding the mayonnaise and mustard into a medium-sized bowl. Use a spoon or whisk to blend them until the texture looks creamy and smooth. This is the base of the sauce, so make sure it looks even without lumps. The mixture should feel glossy and thick, which is a good sign that it’s ready for the next step.
Step 3: Add the flavor boosters
Now add the garlic, horseradish, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. These are the ingredients that give Remoulade Sauce its bold taste. Stir them in slowly so the spices don’t clump together. You’ll notice the color of the sauce changing slightly, becoming richer and more vibrant. This is where the aroma starts to build, and you’ll smell the garlic and spices blending with the creamy base.
Step 4: Balance with liquids
Next, pour in the lemon juice and pickle juice. These liquids help cut through the heaviness of the mayonnaise and add a tangy brightness. Mix them in gently, and you’ll see the sauce loosen just a little, making it smoother. Taste a small spoonful at this stage to check if the flavors feel balanced, and adjust if you want more tang or spice.
Step 5: Chill and let flavors blend
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Letting the sauce rest is important because it gives the flavors time to settle and blend together. After chilling, the sauce will taste more complete, and the texture will feel creamier. When you take it out, give it a quick stir before serving so it looks fresh and smooth.
💡 Note: These steps are just an overview. For detailed quantities, measurements, and exact timings to make this recipe, please check the recipe card below.
Helpful Tips For The Best Results:
Texture check: Make sure you mix the mayonnaise and mustard until the sauce looks smooth and glossy, because if you leave it uneven, the flavors won’t blend properly.
Balance the heat: Add hot sauce or Cajun seasoning slowly, tasting as you go, so the spice doesn’t overpower the creamy base.
Fresh garlic matters: Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced from a jar, since it gives a stronger flavor that makes the sauce taste fresher.
Swap smartly: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can use Creole seasoning, but remember it will be less spicy and more herbal.
Chill time counts: Always let the sauce rest in the fridge before serving, because this helps the flavors settle and makes the texture creamier.
Tasty Variations to Try:
- Extra spicy: Add more hot sauce or even a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like stronger heat.
- Smoky twist: Use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika to give the sauce a deeper flavor.
- Herb-friendly: Mix in fresh parsley or dill for a lighter, garden-style taste.
- Low-fat option: Swap regular mayonnaise with light mayo or even Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
- Seasonal idea: Add a little fresh lemon zest in summer for brightness, or a touch of honey in colder months for balance.
- Sandwich spread: Stir in a spoon of ketchup or relish to make it more like a tangy sandwich dressing.
Serving Suggestions:
1. Seafood dishes:
Serve with crab cakes, fried shrimp, or salmon patties because the creamy and tangy flavor pairs well with the richness of seafood.
2. Fried favorites:
Perfect for onion rings, chicken tenders, or fries since the sauce adds a smooth contrast to the crispy texture.
3. Sandwiches:
Spread on po’boy sandwiches or roast beef subs to give extra flavor and moisture that makes the filling taste better.
4. Vegetable snacks:
Pairs well with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, or cucumbers, making them feel less plain and more enjoyable.
5. Sliders and small bites:
Great for mini sandwiches or party snacks, adding a little kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Storage & Reheating Tips:
- How long it keeps: Remoulade Sauce usually stays fresh for about a week when stored properly, so it’s best to make small batches you can finish within that time.
- Best storage method: Keep the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator, because this helps maintain the creamy texture and prevents the flavors from fading too quickly.
- Simple reheating advice: Since Remoulade Sauce is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, you don’t really reheat it, but if it separates after sitting, just give it a quick stir to bring it back together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
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Can I substitute ingredients?
Yes, you can swap Cajun seasoning with Creole seasoning if you want less spice, and you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
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Can I make it ahead of time?
Remoulade Sauce actually tastes better when made ahead because the flavors blend together, so preparing it a day before serving works really well.
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Why does the texture look uneven?
If the sauce separates or looks too thin, just stir it again before serving, and it should come back to a smooth consistency.
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Is it suitable for certain diets?
You can adjust it by using light mayo or plant-based mayonnaise, which makes it fit better for low-fat or vegan diets.
Remoulade Sauce
Description
Remoulade Sauce is a creamy and slightly spicy condiment that you can make quickly with simple pantry ingredients. It’s perfect for seafood, fried foods, or sandwiches, and it adds a tangy kick that makes everyday meals taste a little more special.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1½ cups mayonnaise and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard in a medium bowl. Mix them together until smooth and creamy.
- Add 2 tsp prepared horseradish, 1 tsp hot sauce, 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic, ½ tsp dried parsley, ½ tsp paprika, and 2 tsp Cajun seasoning. Stir until everything is evenly combined and the sauce looks rich in color.
- Pour in 1 tsp pickle juice and 1 tsp lemon juice. Mix again until the sauce looks glossy and smooth. Taste and adjust if you want more tang or spice.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors blend together.
- Stir before serving to restore creamy texture.
Notes
- Chill time is important because it helps the flavors settle and makes the sauce taste better.
- If the sauce looks too thick, add a few drops of lemon juice or pickle juice to loosen it.
- For a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light mayo.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 16
Serving Size 2 tbsp
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 145kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16g25%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Trans Fat 0.04g
- Cholesterol 9mg3%
- Sodium 158mg7%
- Potassium 16mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 1g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 0.2g
- Protein 0.3g1%
- Vitamin A 143 IU
- Vitamin C 1 mg
- Calcium 4 mg
- Iron 0.1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000‑calorie diet, and your daily needs may be higher or lower depending on your lifestyle. Nutrition information is shared only as a general estimate and may not always be fully accurate. If you follow a special diet or have specific health concerns, it’s best to check with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.
