Pickled Red Onions

These Pickled Red Onions are a fantastic way to enhance any meal with vibrant flavor. Perfect for tacos, salads, or as a topping for grilled meats, these quick pickled onions are easy to make and require just five simple ingredients. Their tangy taste and beautiful color make them a versatile addition to your kitchen, suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of active time, you can have these pickled onions ready in no time.
• Versatile Flavor Enhancer: Use them to brighten up tacos, sandwiches, or even as a garnish on salads.
• Healthier Option: Made without preservatives, these pickled onions are a fresh alternative to store-bought varieties.
• Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sugar level or use a substitute to suit your taste preferences.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant color of the red onions adds visual appeal to any dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mason jar (1-pint wide-mouth)
• Small saucepan
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mason jar: Keeps the pickled onions fresh in the refrigerator while allowing you to see their beautiful color.
• Small saucepan: Ideal for quickly combining ingredients and heating them for the pickling process.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for safely slicing the red onion into thin pieces for optimal pickling.

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

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

1. In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and kosher salt.
2. Stir together until fully combined.

Step 3: Heat the Mixture

1. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, remove the pot from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Pour Over Onions

1. Carefully pour the hot mixture over the sliced onions in the mason jar.
2. Screw on the lid tightly.

Step 5: Cool and Store

1. Allow the jar to cool completely at room temperature.
2. Once cooled, store it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best results.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Course: Side
Cuisine: American

With this simple recipe for Pickled Red Onions, you’ll always have a tangy condiment on hand that’s perfect for adding zest to any meal! Enjoy!

How to Serve Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions are versatile and can enhance a variety of dishes. Their tangy flavor and vibrant color make them an exciting addition to meals. Here are some creative ways to enjoy your pickled red onions.

Tacos

• Add pickled red onions to tacos for a burst of flavor. They pair well with beef or chicken, adding a crunchy, tangy contrast.

Salads

• Toss pickled red onions into salads for an extra kick. They complement leafy greens, beans, and grains beautifully.

Sandwiches

• Layer pickled red onions in sandwiches or wraps. They add a refreshing crunch that elevates any filling.

Rice Bowls

• Top rice bowls with pickled red onions for a zesty twist. They balance out rich ingredients like grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Charcuterie Boards

• Include pickled red onions on charcuterie boards for a pop of color and taste. They pair wonderfully with cheeses and cured meats.

How to Perfect Pickled Red Onions

Creating the best pickled red onions requires just a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your onions turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose fresh onions: Select firm, unblemished red onions for the best flavor and texture in your pickling process.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar based on your taste preferences. Adding less will give you a sharper pickle.
• Experiment with spices: Consider adding whole spices like peppercorns or mustard seeds for added depth of flavor.
• Cool before sealing: Allow the mixture to cool before sealing the jar; this helps preserve the crunchiness of the onion.
• Let them marinate: For optimal taste, let the pickled red onions sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before using them.

Best Side Dishes for Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions pair well with many side dishes, enhancing their flavors and adding visual appeal. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside:

1. Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole contrasts nicely with tangy pickled red onions, creating a delightful dip.
2. Corn Tortillas: Serve warm corn tortillas alongside your dish; they provide a soft base that complements the crunch of pickles.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables for a hearty side that balances sweetness and acidity.
4. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with herbs and citrus works well; add pickled red onions for an extra zing.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad topped with dill and yogurt enhances the freshness when served with pickles.
6. Fried Plantains: The sweetness of fried plantains contrasts beautifully with the acidity of pickled red onions, making it a perfect match.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pickled red onions, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you get it right.

• Skipping the slicing technique: Not slicing the onions thinly can lead to uneven pickling. Make sure your slices are about 1/8 inch thick for the best results.
• Using tap water: Tap water may contain impurities that can affect flavor. Instead, use filtered or distilled water for a cleaner taste.
• Not allowing cooling time: Pouring hot liquid over the onions without letting it cool can cause them to become mushy. Allow the brine to sit for a few minutes before pouring.
• Neglecting storage conditions: Storing pickled red onions at room temperature can lead to spoilage. Always keep them in the refrigerator.
• Ignoring flavor adjustments: If you want a sweeter or spicier profile, don’t hesitate to adjust sugar or add spices like chili flakes. Customize according to your taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container or mason jar.
• Pickled red onions can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.

Freezing Pickled Red Onions

• Freezing is not recommended as it may alter texture and flavor.
• For long-term storage, consider reducing batch size instead.

Reheating Pickled Red Onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm them in an oven-safe dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 20-30 seconds until warm, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about pickled red onions, here are some common questions answered.

What are Pickled Red Onions?

Pickled red onions are thinly sliced red onions soaked in vinegar and seasonings. They add a tangy crunch to various dishes.

How long do Pickled Red Onions last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, pickled red onions can last up to two weeks.

Can I customize my Pickled Red Onions?

Absolutely! You can adjust the sweetness by changing the sugar amount or add spices like garlic or chili flakes for extra flavor.

What dishes pair well with Pickled Red Onions?

These versatile pickles complement tacos, salads, sandwiches, and grilled meats beautifully.

Are there different ways to make Pickled Red Onions?

Yes! You can experiment with different vinegars or add herbs and spices for unique variations.

Final Thoughts

This quick pickled red onion recipe is not only easy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re topping tacos or adding color and flavor to salads, these pickles will elevate any meal. Feel free to customize your recipe with spices and flavors you love!