Pickled Red Onions

How to make pickled red onions with 5 base ingredients and in just minutes! These quick pickled red onions are sweet, tangy, and crisp. They’re the ultimate condiment to elevate burgers, tacos, salads, and more! Perfect for any occasion, they add a burst of flavor that can transform simple dishes into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these pickled red onions in no time.
• Versatile Use: Great on tacos, burgers, salads, or even as a topping for avocado toast; they fit almost any meal.
• Flavor Boost: The sweet and tangy profile enhances your dishes without overpowering them.
• Healthy Option: Low in calories and packed with flavor, these pickled onions are a guilt-free addition to your meals.
• Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or spice level according to your preference with different sugars or pepper flakes.

Tools and Preparation

To make preparing your pickled red onions easy and efficient, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth process from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar (or jars)
• Saucepan
• Knife or mandoline
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Perfect for storing your pickled red onions. It keeps them fresh and allows for easy access.
• Saucepan: Essential for warming the water. This step helps dissolve the sugar and salt effectively.
• Knife or mandoline: Facilitates uniform slicing of the onions, ensuring an even pickle throughout.
• Spoon: Useful for mixing ingredients and pressing down the onions in the jar.

Ingredients

How to make pickled red onions with 5 base ingredients and in just minutes! These quick pickled red onions are sweet, tangy, and crisp. They’re the ultimate condiment to elevate burgers, tacos, salads, and more!

For Pickled Red Onions

• 2 medium red onions (or 3 small ones)
• 1 1/4 cup water
• 1 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 3 tbsp sugar (of choice)
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1/4-1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Make Pickled Red Onions

Step 1: Heat the Water

In a saucepan, heat the water on the stove. Turn off the heat before it starts simmering and set aside.

Step 2: Slice the Onions

• Slice the onions thinly into rings or half-moons using a knife or mandoline.
• Transfer the sliced onions to a large (750 ml) mason jar or use 2-3 smaller jars.

Step 3: Prepare the Pickling Liquid

Add sea salt, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar of choice, and white vinegar to the warm water. Stir well until both sugar and salt dissolve.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the mixture over the sliced onions in the mason jar. Press them down gently with a spoon. Close the lid tightly.

Step 5: Refrigerate

Transfer the jar to your fridge. While you can taste them after just 30 minutes, letting them marinate overnight yields better results.

Step 6: Enjoy!

Use these delicious pickled red onions on avocado toast, falafel, tacos, burgers, pizza, and more!

How to Serve Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions are a versatile condiment that can enhance a variety of dishes. Their sweet and tangy flavor adds a delightful crunch, making them perfect for numerous meals. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious topping.

On Tacos

• Soft or hard shell tacos benefit from the added crunch and acidity of pickled red onions, balancing rich flavors like beef, chicken, or beans.

In Salads

• Add pickled red onions to green salads for an extra burst of flavor. They pair well with avocado, tomatoes, and feta cheese.

On Burgers

• Top your favorite burger with pickled red onions to elevate the taste profile. They add a refreshing zing that complements juicy meats.

With Avocado Toast

• Spread some mashed avocado on toast and finish it off with pickled red onions for a trendy and tasty breakfast or snack.

In Grain Bowls

• Sprinkle pickled red onions over grain bowls filled with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and proteins for added color and flavor enhancement.

How to Perfect Pickled Red Onions

Making the best pickled red onions requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your pickles are always crisp and flavorful.

• Choose fresh onions: Quality ingredients make a difference; opt for firm, vibrant red onions for the best results.
• Slice evenly: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to slice the onions thinly. Consistent thickness ensures they pickle evenly.
• Marinate longer: While you can enjoy them after 30 minutes, letting them sit overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
• Experiment with spices: Add different spices like garlic or cumin for unique flavors tailored to your taste preferences.
• Use clean jars: Ensure your mason jars are sterilized before use to prolong shelf life and maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pickled Red Onions

Pairing side dishes with pickled red onions can elevate any meal. Here are some excellent options that complement their tangy flavor.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers work beautifully with the acidity of pickled red onions.
2. Corn Salad – Combine fresh corn, bell peppers, and cilantro; add pickled red onions to enhance the dish’s brightness.
3. Quesadillas – Cheese-filled quesadillas are elevated with slices of pickled red onions adding a zesty contrast.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw topped with these onions brings added texture and flavor; try it on pulled pork sandwiches.
5. Potato Salad – Mix diced potatoes with mayonnaise and herbs; include pickled red onions for an unexpected twist.
6. Hummus Platter – Serve hummus alongside pita chips, vegetables, and pickled red onions for an appetizer spread that impresses.
7. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf gains depth when topped with pickled red onions; consider adding nuts or dried fruit too.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed bell peppers are enhanced by a sprinkle of tangy pickled red onions on top before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pickled red onions, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong vinegar: Different vinegars can change the flavor profile. Stick with white vinegar for the best results.
• Not slicing onions thinly enough: Thick slices won’t pickle properly. Aim for thin, even slices for optimal tanginess.
• Rushing the marinating process: While you can enjoy them after 30 minutes, letting the onions sit overnight enhances their flavor. Patience is key!
• Skipping salt: Salt is essential for flavor and preservation. Don’t skip it; it balances the sweetness of sugar and tanginess of vinegar.
• Overlooking storage conditions: Store your pickled onions in a clean, airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Pickled red onions will last up to 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator.
• Container: Use a glass mason jar or any airtight container to prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Pickled Red Onions

• Duration: While it’s not commonly recommended, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
• Container: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Pickled Red Onions

• Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish at low heat until warmed through. This method is less common but works well if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between to ensure even warmth.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water if they seem dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pickled Red Onions?

Pickled red onions are thinly sliced red onions soaked in a vinegar-based brine with sugar and salt. They add a sweet and tangy flavor to various dishes.

How long do Pickled Red Onions last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, pickled red onions typically last for 2-3 weeks.

Can I customize my Pickled Red Onions?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different spices or herbs like garlic, dill, or peppercorns to create unique flavors tailored to your taste.

Are Pickled Red Onions healthy?

Yes! They are low in calories and can be part of a balanced diet. They also contain antioxidants from the onions.

Can I use other types of onions?

While red onions are preferred for their color and taste, you can use yellow or white onions if that’s what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

Pickled red onions are not just visually appealing but also enhance many dishes with their sweet and tangy flavor. They pair well with tacos, burgers, salads, and more! Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or ingredients for a personal touch. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple yet delicious these pickles can be!