How to Make Quick Pickled Red Onions 🧅✨ The Easy Pickled Onions Recipe for Small Batch Preservation
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for an easy pickled onions recipe that’s quick to prepare and perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes, then you’ve come to the right place! Quick pickled red onions add vibrant color and tangy flavor to salads, tacos, and charcuterie boards. The best part? They take only minutes to make and are ideal for small batches. Whether you’re new to pickling or looking for a simple way to elevate your meal prep, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making small batch pickled onions.
Ready to transform fresh red onions into a tangy, crunchy condiment? Let’s dive right in!
2. Ingredients for Making Easy Pickled Onions
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a sweeter touch)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- Optional: peppercorns, garlic cloves, herbs (like dill or thyme) for added flavor
This recipe is highly adaptable. For more variations, check out our high-protein biscuit recipe for breakfast or a light snack to complement your tangy pickled onions.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Quick Pickled Red Onions
Choose Your Onion and Prepare It
Start by peeling and thinly slicing the red onion. Using a mandoline or a sharp knife will give you uniform slices for even pickling.
Mix the Pickling Solution
In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. This step ensures your easy pickled onions will have a balanced tang and sweetness.
Pack the Onions into a Jar
Place the sliced onions into a clean glass jar, packing them tightly but without crushing. You can add optional flavorings like peppercorns, garlic, or herbs at this stage for extra flavor.
Pour the Brine over the Onions
Carefully pour the hot pickling solution over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave some space at the top of the jar for sealing.
Seal and Chill
Seal the jar tightly and let it cool at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer to the refrigerator. These small batch pickled onions will be ready to enjoy after at least 30 minutes, but their flavor develops more if stored for a few hours or overnight.
4. Storage Tips for Your Pickled Onions
Keep your quick pickled red onions in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they can last up to 2 weeks. To extend their shelf life, ensure onions are always fully submerged in the brine, and use clean utensils when serving.
5. Serving Suggestions for Easy Pickled Onions
These vibrant pickled onions are a versatile condiment. Use them to top:
- Salads for added crunch and acidity
- Tacos or burritos for a zesty flavor boost
- Cheese boards and charcuterie platters
- Grilled meats, fish, or veggie skewers
- Sandwiches for a tangy punch
Explore more delicious recipes like our vegetarian stuffed pasta or spicy honey sriracha salmon bowls for healthy and flavorful meals.
6. FAQs About Making Easy Pickled Onions
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?
Yes, apple cider vinegar can add a slight sweetness and richer flavor, making your quick pickled red onions taste even more delicious.
How long do small batch pickled onions last?
They typically last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight jar.
Can I make these pickled onions spicy?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili to the jar before pouring in the brine for a spicy kick.
How fast can I enjoy my easy pickled onions?
For best flavor, wait at least 30 minutes after sealing and refrigerating, but they taste even better after 24 hours.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Ninja SLUSHi with RapidChill Technology: Perfect for preparing ingredients quickly and chilling drinks alongside your pickled onions, making your kitchen prep seamless.
- Fullstar Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer: Speeds up slicing onions evenly, ensuring perfect thin slices for pickling.
- Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine: While not essential, it can help prepare homemade bread to serve alongside your pickled onions for full meals or snacks.
Upgrade your kitchen arsenal with these tools that simplify and enhance your pickling experience!
8. Conclusion
Making easy pickled onions at home is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a vibrant, tangy condiment that elevates your meals. Whether you’re preparing a quick snack or garnishing a special dinner, these quick pickled red onions are a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Try this recipe today and enjoy the satisfying crunch and bold flavor in every bite!
If you want to explore more delicious recipes that complement your pickled onions, visit our classic zucchini bread or the lemon blueberry yogurt loaf.
9. Final thoughts
Homemade small batch pickled onions are a fantastic way to add zing to your dishes with minimal effort. Experiment with different vinegars, spices, and herbs to create your perfect flavor profile. Happy pickling!
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How to Make Quick Pickled Red Onions
Learn how to make quick pickled red onions with this easy and flavorful recipe. Perfect for enhancing salads, tacos, and charcuterie boards with vibrant color and tangy flavor in minutes. Ideal for small batches and quick preparation.
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup of pickled onions
Ingredients
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar for a sweeter touch)
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- Optional: peppercorns, garlic cloves, herbs like dill or thyme for added flavor
Instructions
- Peel and thinly slice the red onion using a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform slices.
- In a small saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
- Pack the sliced onions into a clean glass jar, adding optional flavorings if desired.
- Pour the hot brine over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Leave some space at the top.
- Seal the jar tightly and let cool at room temperature. Refrigerate and let sit for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Notes
- Ensure onions are fully submerged in brine for proper preservation.
- Use clean utensils to avoid contamination.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or sliced chili before pouring the brine.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Condiment
- Method: Stovetop, Quick pickle
- Cuisine: American, International
- Diet: Vegetarian, Vegan friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 12 Kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg