Go Back Email Link
–+ servings

Pickled Red Onions Recipe

Emily Parker
Square close-up of the finished pickled red onions.
Save
Thin red onion slices softened in a quick vinegar, water, sugar and salt brine for a tangy refrigerator topping.
Estimated Recipe CostEstimated US$2.25 for one jar
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Pickling time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 16 2-tablespoon portions
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 10

Ingredients
  

Quick pickle
  • 1 large red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon whole black peppercorns optional

Equipment

  • Clean pint-size glass jar with lid
  • Small saucepan
  • Mandoline or sharp knife

Instructions
 

  1. Slice onion into thin even half-moons. Pack loosely into a clean pint jar, leaving room for brine. Add peppercorns if using.
  2. Combine vinegar, water, sugar and salt in a small saucepan. Warm over medium heat, stirring just until dissolved. Bring to a brief simmer, then remove from heat.
  3. Pour hot brine over onion until slices are submerged. Let the jar cool uncovered on a heat-safe surface, then seal it.
  4. Refrigerate promptly. Thin slices become tangy after about 1 hour and more mellow overnight. Use a clean fork and keep the rest covered by brine.

Nutrition

Serving: 2tablespoonCalories: 10kcalCarbohydrates: 2gSodium: 80mg

Video

Notes

Refrigerator only: This is a quick pickle, not a tested canning recipe. Refrigerate after cooling and do not store at room temperature.
Storage: Keep submerged in brine in a clean sealed jar and use within 2 weeks. Discard if mold, off odors or unusual texture develops.
Nutrition: Approximate per 2-tablespoon portion, depending on retained brine.
Cost: Estimated US$2.25 for one small jar, mostly onion and vinegar.
Video: Chili Pepper Madness demonstrates a related preparation. This recipe uses a measured small-batch brine and must be refrigerated, never stored at room temperature.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it turned out!
QR Code linking back to recipe