Easy, peasy, pickled red onions, are the best addition to a tasty sandwich or a savory slice of pizza. They add the certain, hmmm, why is this so good, to just about everything! And quicker to make then my yummy Red Onion Chutney recipe (but that one is super tasty too)!

overhead shot of pickled red onions

Bright to look at and bright to eat. Use as a topping for tacos, pizza, sandwiches, salads, you name it. Mix in with beans and rice, oh geez. They work so well with so many foods, adding that bright note you just can’t get from anything else. 

Easy and quick to make, you may even have everything right in your cupboard. Only eight ingredients, with five (5) being the most essential. Onions, of course, vinegar, water, sugar and salt. The peppercorns, garlic and chilis are optional, but highly recommended. 

raw red onions in mason jars
red onions in mason jars with a green funnel
Funnels are underrated, I pull this thing out weekly, and have various spout sizes.

A few tips when making pickled red onions

  • Be sure the sugar and salt are dissolved before removing from the heat
  • Make sure the liquid covers all the onions
  • Add whatever other flavorings you like, make it Italian with some dried oregano, or Asian inspired by adding Sichuan peppercorns, experiment and have fun!
  • Be sure to share your pickled red onions, they are so easy to make, you can whip them up anytime
  •  Try them with my Shrimp Taco recipe
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
two jars of easy pickled red onions

Easy Pickled Red Onions

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Shelagh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4-8 oz. jars
  • Category: Dessert and Misc.
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Easy and delish. Once you make these onions, you won’t let your fridge be without these tangy slices, ever again!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 medium red onions
  • 2 cups white vinegar
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt (affiliate link)
  • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
  • 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • 1-2 red Fresno chilis, thinly sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. Thinly slice the onions (use a mandoline or slicing blade of a food processor (affiliate link), if you have one), and divide the onions between 4 (8-oz.) jars or whatever jars you have on hand. Divide evenly and place the garlic, peppercorns, chili flakes, and Fresno chilis (if using) into each jar.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring the vinegar, water, sugar, and salt to a simmer. Stir until the sugar and salt dissolve. Let cool and pour over the onions. Let cool to room temperature, then store the onions in the fridge.
  3. Pickled red onions will last in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

Makes about two 16 oz. jars or four 8 oz. jars (so you can be nice and share one with a friend).


Equipment


Just look at that jeweled color!

Register before November 14 and receive $100 off your booking and an exclusive GráBia apron.

Join our Irish Adventure!

GráBia

Food Tour of Ireland

A small-group culinary journey through Ireland’s most delicious regions — from artisan bread and cheesemakers to cozy village pubs.