Go Back
To make easy pickled red onions, gather these key items: - 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced - 1 cup apple cider vinegar - 1 cup water - 2 tablespoons sugar - 1 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon black peppercorns - 1 teaspoon mustard seeds You can enhance your pickled onions with these extras: - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) - 2 cloves garlic, smashed (optional) These optional ingredients add a nice kick and depth of flavor. You will need a few simple tools for this recipe: - A sharp knife or mandoline for slicing - A saucepan for heating the pickling liquid - A clean jar or airtight container for storage - A stirring spoon to mix ingredients These tools make the process quick and easy. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section. First, peel the red onions. Slice them thinly into rings. A mandoline helps with even slices. Thin slices ensure the onions soak up the pickling liquid well. It also makes them easy to eat. Set the sliced onions aside. Now, grab a saucepan to make the pickling liquid. Combine one cup of apple cider vinegar and one cup of water in the pan. Add two tablespoons of sugar and one teaspoon of salt. Next, toss in one teaspoon of black peppercorns and one teaspoon of mustard seeds. If you like heat, add half a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add two smashed garlic cloves for extra flavor. Place the saucepan on medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Stir it as it heats. This helps the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Once it boils, remove the pan from the heat. Add the sliced onions to the hot liquid. If you used garlic, add that too. Stir everything to combine well. Let the mixture sit for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to blend. Next, transfer the onions and liquid to a clean jar. Make sure the onions are fully submerged in the liquid. If they float, press them down gently. Seal the jar and place it in the fridge. Your pickled onions will be ready to enjoy after a few hours. For the best taste, let them sit for a day. You can find the full recipe for this zesty treat earlier in this article. Enjoy your tasty creation! When slicing red onions, aim for thin, even rings. Use a sharp knife to make clean cuts. A mandoline slicer also works well for uniform slices. Thin slices soak up the pickling liquid better. This makes them more flavorful and crunchy. If you find onions make you cry, chill them in the fridge before slicing. This helps reduce the tears. You can easily change the taste of your pickled onions. If you want it sweeter, add more sugar. If you prefer a tangy bite, increase the vinegar. For heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes. Feel free to play with spices too. You can try adding coriander seeds or fresh herbs. Taste the liquid as you mix it. Adjust until it suits your palate. Pickled red onions add color and taste to many dishes. Use them on tacos or burgers for a nice crunch. They also brighten up salads or grain bowls. Try them with roasted vegetables or fish for extra flavor. You can even serve them on a charcuterie board. Their vibrant color makes any dish pop. You can find more ideas in the Full Recipe section. {{image_2}} You can use many types of vinegar for pickled red onions. Apple cider vinegar is a favorite because it adds a nice, fruity taste. You might try white wine vinegar for a light flavor. Rice vinegar works well too, giving a sweeter touch. Each vinegar changes the taste, so feel free to experiment. Adding herbs and spices can give your pickled onions a new twist. You can include fresh dill for a bright flavor. Try adding thyme or oregano for an earthy note. If you want heat, toss in some peppercorns or red pepper flakes. These spices bring out the onion's natural sweetness. You can also add fruit or citrus for a fun kick. Slices of jalapeño add heat and flavor. Try adding orange or lime zest for a citrus twist. You can even throw in some diced mango or pineapple for sweetness. These additions make your pickled onions stand out in any dish. For the full recipe, check out the details above. Store your pickled red onions in a clean jar. Make sure it has a tight lid. Keep the jar in the fridge. This helps keep the onions fresh and crisp. Always ensure the onions stay submerged in the pickling liquid. If they float, press them down gently with a clean spoon. Pickled red onions last up to three weeks in the fridge. After a week, they develop more flavor. You can enjoy them right away or let them sit longer for a stronger taste. Just keep an eye out for any changes in smell or color. If something seems off, it’s best to toss them. You can reuse the pickling liquid for more onions. Just strain it to remove any bits. It still has great flavor. You can add fresh onions to the same liquid after a week. This way, you enjoy the tangy taste without wasting anything. Try adding some other veggies for a fun twist! Pickled onions can last up to two weeks in the fridge. Store them in a clean, airtight jar. The vinegar helps preserve them. After a few days, their flavor deepens. If you see any signs of spoilage, discard them. Yes, you can use other onions. Sweet onions or yellow onions work well too. Each type brings its own flavor. Red onions are vibrant and add color. Sweet onions offer a milder taste. Experiment to find what you like best! Pickled red onions are versatile. You can use them on tacos, salads, or sandwiches. They add a tangy crunch to burgers or grilled meats. You can also serve them with cheese and charcuterie boards. They brighten up any dish! For more ideas, check the Full Recipe. You now have a clear guide for making pickled onions. We covered ingredients, tools, and steps for perfect results. Remember to adjust flavors and try different vinegars or spices for your twist. Store them properly for long-lasting taste. With these tips, you can enjoy pickled onions on tacos, sandwiches, or salads. Try it and see how easy it is to add bold flavor to your meals. Happy pickling!

Easy Pickled Red Onions

Add a tangy twist to your meals with these zesty pickled red onions! This simple recipe uses everyday ingredients like apple cider vinegar, sugar, and spices to create a delicious topping perfect for tacos, salads, or burgers. In just a little prep time, you can elevate your dishes with this colorful addition. Click through to explore the full recipe and learn how easy it is to make your own pickled onions at home!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 medium red onions, thinly sliced

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1 cup water

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black peppercorns

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

2 cloves garlic, smashed (optional)

Instructions
 

Start by peeling the red onions and slicing them thinly into rings. You can use a mandoline for even slices.

    In a saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).

      Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, ensuring that the sugar and salt dissolve completely.

        Once boiling, remove the saucepan from the heat and add the sliced onions and smashed garlic, if using. Stir to combine.

          Let the mixture sit for about 20-30 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.

            Transfer the onions and pickling liquid to a clean jar or airtight container. Make sure the onions are submerged in the liquid; if necessary, press them down gently.

              Seal the jar and refrigerate. The pickled onions will be ready to eat after a few hours, but they taste best after a day!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr (plus refrigeration time) | About 2 cups

                  - Presentation Tips: Serve the pickled onions as a vibrant topping on tacos, burgers, or salads. They can also be stored in decorative jars and given as gifts!