Easy Pickled Red Onion Recipe – Ready in 30 Minutes

Pickled red onion recipe is your ticket to a burst of flavor that elevates any dish! Imagine crisp, vibrant slices of red onion soaking in a tangy brine of apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a hint of salt, creating a delightful balance of sweet and sour. This quick and easy recipe transforms ordinary meals into extraordinary feasts, perfect for tacos, salads, or even as a zesty snack. In just a few hours, you’ll have a jar of these colorful gems ready to brighten up your table and tantalize your taste buds!

pickled red onion recipe

Chef Jasper

Discover the perfect pickled red onion recipe that adds a zesty kick to your meals! Easy to make and delicious!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 24 minutes mins

Course Condiment

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 servings

Calories 20 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large glass jar For storing the pickled onions.
• 1 Saucepan For preparing the brine.

Ingredients

  

Onions

• 1 large red onion The star of the recipe, providing a vibrant color and crunch.

Brine Ingredients

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar Adds a tangy flavor and helps preserve the onions.
• 1 cup water Balances the acidity of the vinegar for a milder taste.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar Enhances sweetness to offset the tanginess.
• 1 tablespoon salt Brings out the flavors and aids in the pickling process.
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns Adds a subtle spice and depth to the brine.
• 2 cloves garlic Infuses a savory note into the pickled onions.
• 2 leaves bay leaves Imparts an aromatic flavor to the mix.

Instructions

 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

• Collect 1 large red onion, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of salt.

Step 2: Slice the Onion

• Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. Aim for even slices for the best pickling experience!

Step 3: Prepare the Brine

• In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium until the sugar and salt dissolve.

Step 4: Pack the Jar

• Place the sliced onions in a clean glass jar. You can pack them tightly, but leave some space at the top.

Step 5: Pour the Brine

• Carefully pour the hot brine over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. You can use a spoon to press them down if needed.

Step 6: Cool and Seal

• Let the jar cool to room temperature. Once cooled, seal it with a lid.

Step 7: Refrigerate

• Place the jar in the refrigerator. Let the onions pickle for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better!

Step 8: Enjoy!

• Your pickled red onions are ready to add a zesty kick to salads, tacos, or sandwiches. Dig in and enjoy your creation!

Keyword pickled onions

Why You’ll Love This Pickled Red Onion Recipe

• Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
• Adds a vibrant pop of color and flavor to any dish.
• Versatile—great on tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
• Healthy and fresh, with no preservatives or artificial ingredients.
• Customizable—adjust the sweetness and tang to your taste!

Recipe Snapshot

Ingredients for Pickled Red Onion Recipe

• Red Onions – the star of the recipe, providing a vibrant color and crunch.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – adds a tangy flavor and helps preserve the onions.
• Water – balances the acidity of the vinegar for a milder taste.
• Granulated Sugar – enhances sweetness to offset the tanginess.
• Salt – brings out the flavors and aids in the pickling process.
• Black Peppercorns – adds a subtle spice and depth to the brine.
• Garlic Cloves – infuses a savory note into the pickled onions.
• Bay Leaves – imparts an aromatic flavor to the mix.

Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.

How to Make the Pickled Red Onion Recipe

Get ready to create your own tangy masterpiece with this easy pickled red onion recipe!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Collect 1 large red onion, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1 tablespoon of salt.

Step 2: Slice the Onion

Peel the red onion and slice it thinly. Aim for even slices for the best pickling experience!

Step 3: Prepare the Brine

In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium until the sugar and salt dissolve.

Step 4: Pack the Jar

Place the sliced onions in a clean glass jar. You can pack them tightly, but leave some space at the top.

Step 5: Pour the Brine

Carefully pour the hot brine over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. You can use a spoon to press them down if needed.

Step 6: Cool and Seal

Let the jar cool to room temperature. Once cooled, seal it with a lid.

Step 7: Refrigerate

Place the jar in the refrigerator. Let the onions pickle for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better!

Step 8: Enjoy!

Your pickled red onions are ready to add a zesty kick to salads, tacos, or sandwiches. Dig in and enjoy your creation!

Pro Tips for Making the Pickled Red Onion Recipe

• Use fresh red onions for the best flavor and crunch.
• Experiment with different vinegars like apple cider or rice vinegar for unique tastes.
• Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity and enhance sweetness.
• Let the onions sit for at least an hour before serving for maximum flavor infusion.
• Store in a glass jar for easy access and to keep them crisp longer.

How to Serve Pickled Red Onion Recipe

Here are some fun and tasty ways to enjoy your pickled red onions:

• Add them to tacos for a zesty crunch.
• Top your burgers or sandwiches for a flavor boost.
• Mix into salads for a tangy twist.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a refreshing contrast.
• Incorporate into grain bowls for added color and taste.
• Use as a garnish for soups to elevate the dish.
• Pair with cheese and crackers for a delightful appetizer.
• Include in wraps for a vibrant, tasty filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Proper storage ensures your pickled red onions stay fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Use an airtight container for storage.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Transfer pickled onions to a freezer-safe container.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
• For quick thawing, place in a bowl of cold water.
• Use directly from the fridge for best texture and taste.

For More Recipes, follow me on Facebook and Pinterest

FAQs