Pickled Red Onions
These quick pickled red onions are a vibrant addition to any meal. Their crisp texture and tangy flavor elevate everything from tacos to salads, making them perfect for various occasions. With just five simple ingredients, you can easily prepare these delicious pickles at home. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also offer a burst of flavor that will impress your guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With only five ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these pickled onions in no time.
- Versatile Addition: They pair perfectly with a variety of dishes, including tacos, sandwiches, and salads.
- Healthier Option: Homemade pickles allow you to control the ingredients, making them a healthier alternative to store-bought options.
- Flavor Boost: The combination of vinegar and sugar creates a delightful balance that enhances your meals.
- Long-Lasting: Once prepared, these pickled red onions can be stored in the fridge for weeks, providing ongoing flavor for your dishes.

Tools and Preparation
To make your pickled red onions, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that the process goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wide-mouth mason jar
- Small saucepan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Wide-mouth mason jar: This makes it easy to fill with onions and allows for better mixing of the pickling solution.
- Small saucepan: Ideal for boiling the vinegar mixture quickly without taking up too much space on your stovetop.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing the onion, which is crucial for even pickling.
Ingredients
These quick pickled red onions require just five ingredients:
- 1 large Red onion
- 1 cup White Vinegar
- 1 cup Water
- 1 tablespoon Sugar (you can leave out sugar or use a sugar substitute if you prefer.)
- 2 teaspoons Kosher salt
How to Make Pickled Red Onions
Step 1: Prepare the Onion
- Peel the red onion and cut it in half.
- Thinly slice the onion halves and place them in a 1 pint wide-mouth mason jar.
Step 2: Make the Pickling Solution
- In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt.
- Stir the mixture together until well combined.
- Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Pour Over Onions
- Once boiling, remove the pot from heat.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes before pouring it over the sliced onions in the jar.
Step 4: Cool and Store
- Screw the lid onto the mason jar tightly.
- Allow it to cool completely at room temperature before storing in the refrigerator.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Side
Cuisine: American
Keywords: easy pickled red onions, pickled red onion recipe, pickled red onions, quick pickled red onions
How to Serve Pickled Red Onions
Pickled red onions are a versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. Their tangy flavor and vibrant color make them an excellent addition to meals. Here are some great ways to serve pickled red onions.
On Tacos
- Add a spoonful of pickled red onions on top of your favorite tacos for a zesty crunch that complements the flavors perfectly.
In Salads
- Toss in pickled red onions to salads for an unexpected burst of flavor. They pair well with greens, avocado, and even grains.
With Sandwiches
- Layer pickled red onions in sandwiches or wraps to enhance the taste. They contrast beautifully with meats and cheeses.
As a Garnish
- Use pickled red onions as a garnish for soups or stews. Their bright color adds visual appeal while their acidity balances rich flavors.
On Charcuterie Boards
- Include pickled red onions on charcuterie boards. They add a nice tang that pairs wonderfully with meats, cheeses, and crackers.
How to Perfect Pickled Red Onions
Perfecting your pickled red onions is simple with a few tips. Here’s how you can enhance their flavor and texture.
- Choose Fresh Onions: Selecting fresh, firm red onions ensures crispness in your pickles.
- Slice Thinly: Cutting the onions into thin slices helps them absorb the brine more effectively, enhancing flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Experiment with sugar levels or substitutes according to your taste preference for balanced sweetness.
- Let Them Marinate: Allowing the onions to sit in the brine for at least 30 minutes before using will deepen their flavor.
- Store Properly: Keep your pickled red onions in an airtight jar in the fridge to maintain their crunch and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Pickled Red Onions
Serving pickled red onions alongside certain dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some side dishes that pair beautifully with them:
- Grilled Chicken: The tanginess of pickled red onions complements grilled chicken perfectly, adding brightness.
- Black Bean Salad: This hearty salad benefits from the acidity of pickled red onions, enhancing its flavors.
- Mexican Street Corn: The creamy texture of street corn contrasts nicely with crunchy pickled onions, creating a delightful bite.
- Quinoa Bowl: Mix cooked quinoa with vegetables and top with pickled red onions for an easy nutritious meal.
- Fish Tacos: Serve alongside fish tacos for an added zing that balances the richness of the fish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies gain an extra layer of flavor when paired with the sweetness and acidity of pickled red onions.
- Avocado Toast: Top avocado toast with pickled red onions for a modern twist on this classic dish.
- Pulled Pork Sliders: The sharpness of pickled red onions cuts through the richness of pulled pork, making each bite more enjoyable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Pickled red onions can elevate your dishes, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for when making them.
- Ignoring the slicing technique: Slicing the onions too thick can result in uneven pickling. Aim for thin, even slices to ensure they absorb the brine properly.
- Skipping the cooling step: Pouring hot brine over the onions without letting it cool can make them soggy. Allow the brine to sit for a few minutes before pouring it over the onions.
- Neglecting storage containers: Using non-airtight containers can lead to spoilage. Always store your pickled red onions in a clean, airtight jar.
- Overlooking flavor adjustments: Not tasting the brine before pouring can lead to an overly salty or sweet end product. Adjust sugar and salt to suit your taste preferences.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your pickled red onions in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pickled Red Onions
- Freezing is not recommended as it alters the texture of the onions.
- If necessary, use freezer-safe containers and consume within three months.
Reheating Pickled Red Onions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm in a covered dish for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Gentle heat in a pan while stirring until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about pickled red onions that may help enhance your experience.
How long do Pickled Red Onions last?
Pickled red onions last up to two weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator.
Can I adjust the sweetness of my Pickled Red Onions?
Yes! You can add more or less sugar according to your taste. Experiment with different sweeteners if desired.
What dishes pair well with Pickled Red Onions?
These onions are versatile and complement tacos, salads, sandwiches, and grilled meats beautifully.
Are there variations of Pickled Red Onions?
Absolutely! You can try adding spices like cumin or chili flakes for a unique twist on traditional pickling.
Final Thoughts
These quick pickled red onions are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. They add a unique flavor boost to various dishes. Feel free to customize them with different spices or sweeteners based on your preferences!
Quick Pickled Red Onions
Bring a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your meals with these quick pickled red onions. Ideal for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more, this easy recipe requires just five simple ingredients and minimal prep time. The tangy and slightly sweet flavor enhances any dish, making it a must-have condiment in your kitchen. Plus, they can be stored in the fridge for weeks, allowing you to elevate your meals effortlessly. Impress your family and friends with this delightful addition that brings freshness and zing to every bite!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: About 2 cups (8 servings) 1x
- Category: Side
- Method: Pickling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 large red onion
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
Instructions
- Peel the red onion and cut it in half. Thinly slice the onion halves and place them in a wide-mouth mason jar.
- In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Remove from heat after boiling and let the brine sit for about 5 minutes before pouring it over the sliced onions in the jar.
- Secure the lid on the mason jar tightly and allow it to cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 35
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 295mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg