Pickled Red Onions – Refrigerator Method

Jillian Wade — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 21:14:29 +0000

This pickled red onions recipe is easy to make, does not require canning, and is a great topping for tacos, pizzas, bagels, burgers, and much more!

For about $3.26, you can make this recipe that serves ten people. That’s just $0.33 per serving.

Quick Pickled Red Onions

These little purple ribbons of crunchy goodness are my latest obsession. Though you can eat these with almost anything, my favorite way is to top these pickled onions with my breakfast tacos and chicken dinners.

Pickled Red Onions are not only delicious but are super versatile. They add a burst of tangy flavor to a variety of dishes. They are also beautiful to look at in the jars! You can enjoy your own Pickled Red Onions in the comfort of your home using simple ingredients and just a little time.

Why You’ll Love Pickled Red Onion

Flavorful and Tangy: Pickled red onions have a delightful tangy and slightly sweet flavor. The pickling process enhances the onions’ natural sweetness while adding a tangy, acidic note.
Versatility: Pickled red onions are incredibly versatile and can be used in numerous culinary creations. They can be added to salads, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, wraps, grain bowls, and more.
Texture and Crunch: Pickling red onions gives them a slightly softer texture than raw onions, making them easier to eat.
Vibrant Color: The beautiful pinkish-red hue of pickled red onions adds a visually appealing element to your meals.

Pickled Red Onions Ingredients and Estimated Cost:

Recipe Cost: $3.26

Per Serving Cost: $0.33

2 medium-sized onions – $2.36
½ cup distilled white vinegar – $0.16
⅓ cup water – $0.00
1 teaspoon peppercorns – $0.22
2 cloves garlic – $0.08
1 lime – $0.25
2 teaspoons pure maple syrup – $0.18
¼ teaspoon kosher salt – $0.01

NOTE: The recipe prices are calculated by using grocery store websites. The actual cost of the recipe will vary depending on what ingredients you already have. I updated the prices for this recipe in June 2023.

How To Pickle Red Onions

***For complete recipe instructions, see the recipe card below.

First, mix the vinegar, water, garlic, peppercorns, salt, maple syrup, and lime juice.
Then, cut the onions into thin slices and stack them in a jar, laying flat on each other.
Next, pour the seasoned vinegar into the jar with the onions and put the lid on the jar.
Finally, shake the jar and place it in the fridge for two hours before using.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Vinegar Variations: While the recipe calls for distilled white vinegar, you can experiment with different types of vinegar to create unique flavor profiles. Some popular options include apple cider, red wine, or rice vinegar.
Additional Spices: Feel free to add other spices or herbs to the pickling liquid to enhance the flavor. Some common additions include bay leaves, mustard seeds, dill seeds, coriander seeds, or red pepper flakes.
Sweetener Substitutions: You can use honey or agave nectar if you prefer an alternative to maple syrup.
Citrus Variations: Instead of using lime, you can try using lemon, orange, or grapefruit juice to add a different citrus flavor to the pickled onions.
Garlic Alternatives: If you don’t have fresh garlic cloves, you can substitute them with garlic powder or granulated garlic. Use about ¼ to ½ teaspoon of garlic powder to replace each clove. Alternatively, you can omit the garlic if you prefer a milder flavor.

Pickled Red Onion Storage Tips

Serve: Place the onions in the fridge for two hours before using.

Store: These onions will stay fresh in the fridge for up to one week.

Freeze: This recipe does not freeze and defrost well, so I do not recommend freezing it.

Recipe FAQs

How healthy are pickled red onions?

Pickled Red Onions have multiple health benefits. They are high in calcium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C. For the full nutritional value, please see the information at the bottom of the recipe card.

Why do red onions turn pink when pickled?

During the pickling process, the acid from the vinegar breaks down the pigments in the red onions. As a result, the color of the onions changes to a pink hue. The longer they sit, the brighter they become. It is a beautiful transformation!

How long do these pickled red onions last?

I would enjoy them for up to one week in the fridge.

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