Pickled Red Onions Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Easy, vibrant, and delicious; this pickled red onions recipe is a brilliant way to garnish or top countless recipes. Needing just a few ingredients and a little patience.

Do you know what I love so much about pickling? You are left with a delicious, tangy ingredient that will last in the fridge for ages, so you always have the perfect garnish or topping on hand. I showed you how to pickle eggs, so it seems only right that I now provide the secret to perfectly pickled red onions.

You can easily put these pickled red onions on salads, sandwiches, or really anything that is screaming for a burst of flavor. I think this recipe works best with Mexican-inspired or Asian-inspired dishes, and is an easy substitute for ingredients like kimchi, sauerkraut, pickled cucumbers, or radishes. All you need is a few ingredients and some time to kill.

Why You Will Love This Recipe //

These pickles onions last in the fridge for a really long time. If you seal them properly, they can last on the shelf for months.
By preparing a batch of pickled onions, you can save time during other meal prep because you already have this beautiful condiment to add to your meal.
The pink color is stunning, and they add a pop of vibrancy to your dishes.
They’re absolutely delicious; tangy, salty, and sweet.

Ingredients //

Just a few ingredients is all you need to turn your plain onions into something remarkable.

2 large red onions, finely sliced
2 cups white spirit vinegar
2 cups water
1/3 cup white sugar
2 tbsp salt
1 tsp peppercorns

How to Make Pickled Red Onions // The Steps

Step 1: In a pot, combine the vinegar, sugar, salt, and water together and bring to a boil.

Step 2: Divide the sliced onions between 2 clean 10 oz jars.

Step 3: Pour the pickling mix into the jars all the way to the top, then add in the peppercorns and seal the lid. Keep in the refrigerator for at least 2 days for the onions to get really nicely pickled.

Variations //

This recipe is made to be altered! Add in your favorite flavors to the pickling juice and see how it changes the flavor of your red onions.

Spicy pickled red onions: If you are a fan of spicy food, add some heat to your onions by throwing in some sliced chili peppers or red pepper flakes.
Sweet pickled red onions: Want some ultra-sweet pickled onions? Throw in some extra sugar or honey to the pickling brine.
Citrusy pickled red onions: Add some fragrant citrus to your onions by incorporating the zest and/or juice of an orange, lemon, lime, or grapefruit.
Balsamic pickled red onions: Substitute some of (or all of) the spirit vinegar in this recipe with balsamic vinegar. This will add some sweetness and a bit more complexity to the onions.

Serving Suggestions //

I mean it when I say you can top just about anything with these onions. Here are some ideas you can try, but then go ahead and see what you can come up with.

Grilled Halibut Fish Tacos: This guilt-free recipe will satisfy your grilled fish taco craving to the next level. These tacos are light. Fresh tasting. Clean. Flavorful.
Korean Beef Tacos: Bulgogi style Korean beef tacos that are easy enough to make any day of the week. These tacos are sweet, spicy, and a hit with the whole family.
Egg Roll in a Bowl: This egg roll in a bowl is a healthier take on the classic appetizer and makes for a hassle-free meal that’s ready in minutes. Tastes just like an egg roll but, you know, in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Turkey Dip Sandwiches: A lighter take on the French dip sandwich. Turkey dip sandwiches with onions and melted cheese on a toasted bun.
Mexican Avocado Chicken Salad: This salad is loaded with a colorful and flavorful blend of avocado, veggies, corn, beans, and crunchy tortillas. Tossed with a homemade honey-cilantro dressing, this chopped salad is a total crowd-pleaser.

FAQs //

I don’t have spirit vinegar, can I use apple cider vinegar?

Yes, you can use white wine vinegar, red wine vinegar, or apple cider vinegar in place of spirit vinegar.

My pickled onions taste too sweet. What did I do wrong?

This recipe is all about trial and error. You can fix this easily by just adding less sugar into the pickling liquid — cut it right down to 3 tablespoons and see if the flavor improves..

Can I use brown onions instead?

Absolutely, they will taste similar but they won’t have the beautiful pink color.

How to Store Pickled Red Onions //

Once you’ve sealed the jars and placed them in the refrigerator, there is nothing left for you to do but wait for a couple of days. Then, dig in an enjoy. They should last at least 3 weeks, or even longer, if the jar remains sealed tight and they are kept cool in the fridge.