Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Pickled Red Onions

Pickled Red Onions


  • Author: Brian
  • Total Time: 1 hour (best after 24 hours)
  • Yield: About 2 cups 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This easy Pickled Red Onions recipe offers a tangy, crunchy burst of flavor to enhance salads, sandwiches, grilled veggies, and more. Quick to prepare with just simple, fresh ingredients, it adds vibrant color and zesty texture to your meals while keeping well in the fridge for long-lasting freshness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon natural sugar
  • 1 tablespoon salt

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • 1 teaspoon peppercorns
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
  • Zest of 1 lemon or lime
  • 2 sliced garlic cloves
  • 1 cup grape juice (as alternative vinegar)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Onions: Thinly slice the red onions into rings or half-moons, aiming for uniform thinness to ensure faster pickling and a satisfying crunch.
  2. Make the Pickling Brine: In a small saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, natural sugar, salt, and any optional spices you prefer. Heat gently while stirring until sugar and salt dissolve completely. Remove from heat and let the brine cool to room temperature.
  3. Combine and Store: Place the sliced onions in a clean jar or airtight container. Pour the cooled brine over the onions, making sure they are fully submerged. Seal the container tightly and refrigerate.
  4. Let It Pickle: Allow the onions to soak for at least 1 hour, though waiting up to 24 hours yields the best flavor and texture. The onions will brighten to a vibrant pink color and become crisp yet tender.

Notes

  • Use fresh red onions for the best crunch and flavor.
  • Slice onions thinly to ensure faster and even pickling.
  • Keep onions fully submerged in brine to prevent spoilage.
  • Customize your spice mix with coriander seeds, mustard seeds, or cloves for unique flavors.
  • Always refrigerate pickled onions to maintain freshness and texture.
  • Pickled red onions keep well in the fridge up to two weeks.
  • Do not freeze pickled onions as freezing alters texture and makes them soft.
  • Serve chilled or at room temperature to retain crispness and tang.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Pickling
  • Cuisine: International

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
  • Calories: 10
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 290 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 0.1 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: pickled red onions, quick pickled onions, tangy onions, crunchy onions, condiment, salad topping, sandwich topping, grilled vegetables