Pickled Red Onions

These Pickled Red Onions are a quick and flavorful addition to your meals, perfect for tacos, salads, or sandwiches! With just five simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can elevate any dish with their tangy crunch. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple dinner at home, these pickled onions are sure to impress with their vibrant color and zesty flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: You can make these pickled red onions in just 10 minutes!
• Versatile Use: Great as a topping for tacos, salads, or even grilled meats.
• Fresh Flavor: The combination of vinegar and sugar creates a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
• Minimal Ingredients: All you need are five common kitchen staples to whip up this tasty condiment.
• Make Ahead: These pickled onions can be stored in the fridge for weeks, making them a great prep-ahead option.

Tools and Preparation

To make these pickled red onions, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth process from start to finish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wide-mouth mason jar
• Small saucepan
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Wide-mouth mason jar: Ideal for easy filling and access to your pickled onions.
• Small saucepan: Perfect for heating the vinegar mixture evenly without splattering.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely slicing the onions and keeping your kitchen tidy.

Ingredients

These quick pickled red onions are a delicious way to add a little extra flavor to any dish. With just five ingredients that you probably already have around your kitchen, you can pickle these onions in no time!

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

1. Peel the red onion and cut it in half.
2. Thinly slice each half and place the slices in a wide-mouth mason jar.

Step 2: Make the Pickling Liquid

1. In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt.
2. Stir the mixture together and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Combine and Cool

1. Once boiling, remove the pot from heat.
2. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes before pouring it over the sliced onions in the jar.

Step 4: Store Properly

1. Screw the lid onto the mason jar tightly.
2. Let it cool completely at room temperature before storing it 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 can elevate various dishes with their tangy flavor and vibrant color. They are versatile and can be used in numerous ways to enhance your meals.

Tacos

• Add to tacos: These pickled onions pair wonderfully with beef or turkey tacos, adding a zesty crunch that complements the flavors perfectly.

Salads

• Top salads: Sprinkle pickled red onions over salads for an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful pop of color.

Sandwiches

• Enhance sandwiches: Use them in sandwiches or wraps for a delightful contrast to savory ingredients, making every bite exciting.

Grain Bowls

• Dress up grain bowls: Toss them into grain bowls filled with quinoa or rice, along with fresh veggies, for a refreshing taste.

Burgers

• Garnish burgers: Use pickled red onions as a topping on burgers to add acidity and brightness that balances richness.

How to Perfect Pickled Red Onions

To create the best pickled red onions, consider these useful tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

• Choose fresh onions: Always select firm, fresh red onions for the best results. Freshness enhances the overall taste and crunchiness.

• Slice thinly: Cut onions into thin slices. Thinner pieces absorb the pickling solution better, resulting in more flavorful pickles.

• Let them sit: Allow the pickled onions to marinate for at least an hour before serving. This resting time infuses the flavors deeply.

• Experiment with spices: Add spices like peppercorns, garlic cloves, or bay leaves to customize your pickling brine and enhance the flavor profile.

• Use quality vinegar: Opt for high-quality white vinegar for a clean, crisp taste that complements the sweetness of the sugar.

Best Side Dishes for Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole contrasts beautifully with the crispness of pickled red onions.
2. Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad mixed with bell peppers and herbs makes a light accompaniment that works well together.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Serve roasted root vegetables alongside pickled red onions for a delightful sweet-and-sour combination.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can benefit from the added zing of pickled red onions, creating a refreshing side dish.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs pairs nicely with pickled red onions, offering a balanced meal option.
6. Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad gets an upgrade when topped with tangy pickled red onions for added depth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pickled red onions, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls to ensure the best flavor and texture.

• Bold slicing: Cutting the onions too thick can result in uneven pickling. Aim for thin slices for the best results.
• Bold ignoring time: Not allowing the onions to soak long enough can lead to bland flavor. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
• Bold using non-sterilized jars: Using unsterilized jars can introduce bacteria that spoil the pickles. Always sterilize your mason jar before use.
• Bold skipping seasoning: Omitting sugar or salt can make your pickled onions taste flat. Adjust according to your preference for a well-balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pickled red onions in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pickled Red Onions

• While not recommended, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Pickled Red Onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about pickled red onions.

What are Pickled Red Onions?

Pickled red onions are thinly sliced red onions that have been soaked in a vinegar solution, often with added sugar and salt for flavor.

How long do Pickled Red Onions last?

Pickled red onions can last up to 2 weeks when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I customize my Pickled Red Onions?

Absolutely! You can adjust spices or add herbs like dill or cilantro for different flavors.

Are Pickled Red Onions good for tacos?

Yes! They add a delicious tangy crunch that complements many taco fillings perfectly.

Final Thoughts

These quick pickled red onions are not only easy to make but also enhance various dishes with their zesty flavor. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding herbs or spices you enjoy. Give it a try and elevate your meals today!