Oh, dear friends, there are just some magical kitchen creations that make your heart sing, aren’t there? Today, I want to introduce you to one of my absolute favorites: quick pickled red onions. These vibrant, tangy beauties are a game-changer, transforming any dish with their bright flavor and delightful crunch. They’re proof that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can truly be the most extraordinary, bringing a pop of joy to your table!
I remember those precious afternoons in my grandmother’s kitchen, where even the humblest vegetables were treated with such reverence. She taught me that sometimes, a little vinegar and spice could elevate everyday ingredients into something truly special. It’s that same spirit of joyful transformation that I bring to recipes like these quick pickled red onions, turning something ordinary into extraordinary with just a few simple steps.
This recipe for speedy quick pickled red onions is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for adding a gourmet touch to weeknight meals or impressing guests without any fuss. It’s a versatile condiment that everyone in the family will adore. My best tip for any quick pickle recipe is to ensure your slicing is consistent – it makes all the difference!
What You Need to Make This Recipe
Crafting these delightful quick pickled red onions truly showcases how humble ingredients can create something spectacular. With just a vibrant red onion, crisp apple cider vinegar, and a touch of sweetness and spice, you’re on your way to a condiment bursting with flavor. I always find beauty in how simple pantry staples can transform. For the full list of ingredients and precise measurements, please see the recipe card below.
How to Make QUICK PICKLED RED ONIONS
Creating these quick pickled red onions is a breeze, truly! You’ll begin by thinly slicing your red onions, a lovely meditative task. Next, a warm, fragrant brine comes together on the stovetop, infusing water, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and spices with warmth. Once combined, simply let them work their magic, softening into tangy perfection. It’s a process that fills your kitchen with the most wonderful aroma!
Speedy Quick Pickled Red Onions
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Carefully slice the red onion very thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline. Aim for uniform slices about 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick. Pack the sliced onions tightly into your clean, heat-proof pint-sized glass jar.
- In a small saucepan, combine the water, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. If using, add the black peppercorns, bay leaf, and sliced garlic to the saucepan now.
- Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and salt. Once boiling, remove immediately from heat.
- Carefully pour the hot brine over the packed red onions in the jar, making sure the onions are fully submerged. You may need to press them down gently with a spoon. Ensure any optional aromatics are also in the jar.
- Seal the jar with its lid. Allow the jar to cool on the counter for about 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches room temperature. The onions will soften and turn a vibrant pink color as they pickle.
- Once cooled to room temperature, transfer the jar to the refrigerator. For best flavor, let them chill for at least 1-2 hours before serving, though they can be eaten after cooling. The longer they sit, the more pronounced the pickled flavor will become.
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This QUICK PICKLED RED ONIONS
Achieving perfectly crunchy, tangy quick pickled red onions is simpler than you might think, especially with a few tricks I’ve picked up over the years. Remember, cooking should always be a joyful adventure, and these little tips are here to guide you.
Slicing Secrets: When preparing your red onion for this quick pickled red onions recipe, aim for very thin, uniform slices. This ensures they soften evenly and absorb the brine beautifully. I always use a mandoline for this, but a sharp knife and a steady hand work wonders too!
Brine Brilliance: Don’t rush the brine! Ensure the sugar and salt are fully dissolved before pouring it over your onions. This creates a balanced flavor and helps the pickling process along perfectly. It’s a small step that makes a big difference to your quick pickled red onions.
My Secret Trick: I always add a few whole black peppercorns and a small bay leaf to my brine. They add a subtle, complex warmth that elevates the flavor of these quick pickled red onions without overpowering their bright tanginess. It’s a little touch that makes them truly special.
Patience Pays Off: While they are “quick,” giving your quick pickled red onions at least an hour to chill in the fridge truly allows the flavors to meld and the onions to soften to that delightful, tender-crisp texture. If you have the time, a few hours or even overnight is even better!
Fun Variations for QUICK PICKLED RED ONIONS
Part of the joy of home cooking is getting creative and making recipes truly your own! These quick pickled red onions are wonderfully adaptable, and I love experimenting with different flavor profiles. My sister, for instance, adores a spicier kick, while a dear friend always requests a touch of herbs.
Herbaceous Twist
For an aromatic touch, try adding a few sprigs of fresh dill or thyme to your jar along with the quick pickled red onions. The herbs infuse a lovely freshness that complements the tanginess beautifully. It’s a simple way to introduce another layer of flavor.
Spicy Kick
If you love a bit of heat, consider tossing in a few thinly sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the brine. This adds a delightful warmth that makes these quick pickled red onions even more exciting, especially if you’re pairing them with robust flavors.
Citrusy Brightness
A strip of lemon or orange peel added to the brine can lend a bright, citrusy note to your quick pickled red onions. Just be sure to avoid the white pith to prevent any bitterness. This variation is particularly lovely during warmer months.
What to Serve With QUICK PICKLED RED ONIONS
Oh, these quick pickled red onions are such a versatile star on the table! Their bright, tangy crunch can elevate so many dishes, turning an everyday meal into something truly memorable. I always have a jar in my fridge because they pair beautifully with almost anything.
I love serving quick pickled red onions atop savory tacos or vibrant grain bowls, where their acidity cuts through richness perfectly. My mom always insists they’re essential for her summer BBQ burgers, and I wholeheartedly agree! They also make a fantastic addition to creamy avocado toast, lending a wonderful pop of color and flavor. And for a quick weeknight dinner, they transform a simple grilled chicken salad into something truly special and exciting.
How to Store QUICK PICKLED RED ONIONS
Proper storage ensures your beautiful quick pickled red onions stay fresh and delicious, ready to elevate any meal. It’s a small effort that helps preserve all that wonderful flavor you’ve created!
Refrigerator Storage
Once your quick pickled red onions have cooled completely, transfer them, along with their brine, to an airtight jar or container. Store them in the refrigerator, where they will keep beautifully for up to 2-3 weeks. I like to use clear glass jars so I can always see their vibrant color calling to me!
Serving Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply use a clean fork or spoon to remove the desired amount. These quick pickled red onions are best served chilled. A little personal tip: if they’ve been sitting for a while, give the jar a gentle shake before serving to redistribute the flavors.
Nutritional Benefits
While quick pickled red onions are a delightful condiment, they also offer a few lovely benefits! Red onions themselves are packed with antioxidants, and the apple cider vinegar used in the brine is known for its beneficial properties. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a flavorful addition to your meals that’s both satisfying and offers a touch of wholesome goodness.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I use white or yellow onions instead?
While red onions offer the best color and a slightly sweeter flavor, you can certainly use white or yellow onions for quick pickled red onions. The result will still be wonderfully tangy, just with a different aesthetic.
Faq 2
How long do quick pickled red onions need to sit before eating?
You can enjoy them after about 30 minutes, but for the best flavor and texture, I recommend letting your quick pickled red onions chill for at least 1 hour, or even overnight, in the refrigerator.
Faq 3
Can I reuse the pickling brine?
I don’t recommend reusing the brine for a new batch of quick pickled red onions. Over time, the brine loses its potency and can pick up flavors from the previous batch, affecting freshness and safety.
Faq 4
What can I do if my quick pickled red onions are too salty or too sweet?
If they’re too salty, add a tiny bit more sugar. If too sweet, a splash more vinegar can balance it out. Adjust small amounts to your taste, letting the quick pickled red onions rest after each change.
Conclusion
And there you have it, my dear friends – a simple, speedy recipe for quick pickled red onions that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. This recipe embodies everything I adore about home cooking: it’s approachable, rewarding, and brings so much joy to every meal. So go on, embrace the magic of transforming humble red onions into these vibrant, tangy delights. With a little love and patience, you’re not just making a condiment; you’re creating memories, one sweet and tangy bite at a time. Happy pickling!