Easy Pickled Red Onions

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Pickled Red Onions are a quick and flavorful way to elevate your dishes with a tangy crunch. Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, salads, and more, they add a pop of color and zesty brightness to any meal. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these onions can be made in minutes and stored for days.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

red onionswhite vinegarapple cider vinegarsugarkosher saltsliced garlic (optional)black peppercorns (optional)water

directions

Peel and thinly slice the red onions into rings or half-moons.

In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Add garlic and peppercorns if using.

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar and salt.

Place the sliced onions into a clean jar or heatproof container.

Pour the hot pickling liquid over the onions until fully submerged.

Let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using for best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe fills about 1 pint-sized jar.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Pickling time: 1 hour minimum (best after 24 hours)
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add sliced jalapeños or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Use rice vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an herbal touch.
Try using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.

storage/reheating

Store pickled red onions in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
No reheating is needed; serve cold or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use only one type of vinegar?
Yes, but using a combination enhances the flavor complexity.

How soon can I eat them?
They can be eaten after an hour but taste better after sitting overnight.

Do I have to boil the onions?
No, pouring hot brine over them softens them without boiling.

Can I reuse the pickling brine?
It’s best to make fresh brine for safety and flavor consistency.

Can I pickle other vegetables with this method?
Yes, try cucumbers, carrots, or radishes with the same brine.

Will they stay crunchy?
They’ll soften slightly but remain crisp if not over-pickled.

Can I can these for shelf storage?
This recipe is meant for quick refrigeration, not for shelf-stable canning.

Do they taste very sweet?
They have a balanced sweet-tart flavor; adjust sugar to taste.

Are pickled onions good for digestion?
Yes, the vinegar can support digestion and gut health.

What dishes go best with pickled onions?
Tacos, burgers, grain bowls, salads, and sandwiches.

Conclusion

Easy Pickled Red Onions are a must-have condiment that transforms everyday meals with bold flavor and vibrant color. Quick to make and endlessly versatile, they’re a staple you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. Try a batch today and discover just how many ways you can enjoy them.

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