Add a burst of flavour to salads, sandwiches, tacos or your favourite platters with these quick pickled red onions. They’re sweet, tangy, and ready in just minutes, making them perfect when you want a simple, speedy way to elevate your meals.
This easy recipe uses pantry staples and works with almost any vinegar you have on hand. Keep a jar in the fridge for a ready-to-go topping that will lift everything from burgers to grazing boards.
Ingredients
- 1 red onion
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup white vinegar (apple cider vinegar works well too)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
Method
- Thinly slice the red onion and place it in a medium-sized jar with a lid, large enough to hold about 1 cup of liquid.
- Add the water, vinegar, sugar and salt to the jar. Make sure the onions are fully submerged. If not, add equal parts water and vinegar until covered.
- Gently shake the jar for about 30 seconds to help dissolve the sugar and salt.
- Let the onions sit for 5–10 minutes, or longer if you have time, to develop flavour.
And that’s it! Sweet and tangy pickled red onions ready to enjoy in minutes.
Serving ideas
- Add to tacos, burgers or sandwiches
- Sprinkle over salads for extra flavour
- Include in grazing boards or festive platters
- Pair with Kiki crackers and dips for a quick snack
Storage
Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. They taste even better after a few hours as the flavours deepen.
Tips for perfect quick pickled onions
- Slice onions thinly for faster pickling
- Use any vinegar you have on hand – white, apple cider, or even rice vinegar
- Shake the jar occasionally for the first few minutes to help the flavours combine
- Adjust sugar and salt to taste if you like sweeter or tangier onions
