Quick & Easy Pickled Red Onions – Tangy, Crisp & Flavorful Recipe
Vibrant Quick-Pickled Red Onions
Ingredients
Method
- Trim the top off each red onion, leaving the root end intact, then peel away the skin. Using either a very sharp knife or a mandoline set to its finest setting, slice the onions paper‐thin for maximum texture.
- Arrange the delicate slices into one quart jar or two pint jars, gently layering them so they fit snugly.
- Combine the vinegar, water, sugar (or maple syrup) and kosher salt in a small saucepan. Warm the mixture over medium heat until it steams and the sugar and salt have melted – about 2 minutes. (You can also microwave in short intervals.)
- Evenly pour the steamy pickling liquid over the onions. Press them lightly to ensure every slice is fully immersed. Let the jar stand at room temperature for at least 1 hour. For more developed flavor and a bright pink hue, refrigerate for 12 hours (or longer).
These vibrant quick-pickled red onions bring a tangy-sweet crunch to your favorite sandwiches, burgers, salads, and many more dishes. Stored in the refrigerator, they keep their zing for several weeks!
Few condiments can transform a dish quite like freshly pickled onions. Their crisp texture and zesty flavor make them a must-have in any kitchen. Give your meals an instant upgrade with this simple and versatile recipe!
Mastering the Art of Ultra-Thin Slicing
For the best results, your onion slices need to be nearly translucent. If you’re confident with your knife skills, you’re all set. For everyone else, a mandoline slicer is an indispensable tool. I’ve cherished my vintage mandoline for over 15 years – it really makes the difference!
- Carefully trim off the top of each red onion (keeping the root end intact for easier slicing).
- Peel away the outer skin.
- Set your mandoline (or knife) to the thinnest setting and slice the onions into almost paper-thin rounds.
- Lightly pack the thin slices into one quart jar or two pint jars.
The Zesty Pickling Liquid
For a perfectly balanced sweet-tart brine, combine the following in a small saucepan or microwaveable bowl:
- White vinegar or apple cider vinegar (or a blend of both)
- Water
- Sugar or pure maple syrup
- Coarse kosher salt
Warm the mixture over medium heat until it steams and the sugar and salt dissolve completely. This process intensifies the flavors. Then pour the steaming liquid over the packed onions, ensuring they’re fully immersed.
How long do they pickle? Allow the onions to cool and
