Can homemade tartar sauce be safe left out of refrigerator overnight?

No, homemade tartar sauce should not be left out of the refrigerator overnight.

Here's why:

* Perishable Ingredients: Tartar sauce is typically made with mayonnaise, which is an egg-based emulsion. Eggs are a prime breeding ground for bacteria, especially when left at room temperature for extended periods.

* Rapid Bacterial Growth: Bacteria can multiply rapidly at room temperature, leading to food poisoning. Even if your sauce doesn't look or smell spoiled, it could still contain harmful bacteria.

* Food Safety Guidelines: The general rule of thumb is to keep perishable foods, including tartar sauce, refrigerated below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth.

Instead of risking food poisoning, it's best to store your homemade tartar sauce in the refrigerator immediately after making it.

If you do leave it out for a short period (less than 2 hours), you can still use it if it's been kept cold. Just make sure to refrigerate it immediately after that.