Quick Tangy Pickled Red Onions
A quick and easy recipe for tangy pickled red onions that add a bright, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor boost to any meal. Perfect for tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1 pint (16 oz) jar, approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt (fine sea salt preferred)
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, lightly crushed
- 1 garlic clove, peeled and smashed (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Peel and thinly slice 2 medium red onions into rings or half-moons about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Add 1 smashed garlic clove, 1 teaspoon crushed black peppercorns, and optional 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Bring the vinegar mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar and salt dissolve, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Place the sliced onions snugly into a clean glass jar, leaving a little headspace at the top.
- Pour the hot pickling liquid over the onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Press down with a spoon if needed.
- Let the jar cool to room temperature (about 20 minutes), then seal tightly with the lid and refrigerate.
- The onions are ready after 30 minutes but taste best after at least 2 hours or overnight for peak flavor.
Notes
Use thin, even slices for best texture and quick pickling. Avoid vigorous boiling to preserve bright tanginess. Optional garlic and peppercorns add depth. Store refrigerated up to 2 weeks, best within 7 days. For faster chilling, refrigerate uncovered for 15 minutes before sealing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 230
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 0.2
Keywords: pickled red onions, quick pickles, tangy onions, easy condiment, apple cider vinegar, quick pickle recipe