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Quick Tangy Pickled Red Onions

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A simple and fast recipe for tangy, crunchy pickled red onions that add brightness to tacos, salads, and sandwiches. Ready in about 10 minutes with pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced (about 1/8-inch thick)
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes or sliced jalapeño for spice
  • Optional: fresh thyme or oregano sprigs for herbal notes

Instructions

  1. Peel and slice one medium red onion into thin, even rings about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thick. Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp chef’s knife.
  2. In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/2 cup water, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Add 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns and 1 bay leaf.
  3. Heat gently over medium heat while stirring until sugar and salt dissolve, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, about 5 minutes.
  4. Place sliced onions into a heatproof jar or bowl. Pour the warm vinegar mixture over onions, ensuring they are fully submerged. Press down with a spoon or small plate if needed.
  5. Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to develop tangy crunch. Flavor improves after 1-2 hours. Refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for best results.
  6. Store leftover pickled onions in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Slice onions about 1/8-inch thick for best texture. Warm vinegar mixture helps dissolve sugar and salt faster but avoid boiling to keep onions crisp. Press onions down to keep submerged for even pickling. Add fresh lime juice before serving for extra brightness. Variations include adding chili flakes for spice or fresh herbs for flavor. Store refrigerated up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Keywords: pickled red onions, quick pickled onions, tangy onions, easy pickled onions, taco topping, salad topping, homemade pickles

Find it online: https://prismtaste.com/quick-tangy-pickled-red-onions-recipe-easy-homemade-flavor-boost-for-tacos-and-salads/