These easy Quick Pickled Red Onions are 5 ingredients and 10 minutes of hands-on time, ready in the fridge in 4 hours to pile onto tacos, burgers, salads, eggs, and just about everything else. Hot brine, mason jar, that signature pink crunch.
Pickling spice, red pepper flakes, or garlic clovesoptional
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Instructions
Add vinegar, water, salt, and sugar to a saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, whisking occasionally, or until the salt and sugar have dissolved.
⅔ cup distilled white vinegar, ⅓ cup water, 1 ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon sugar
Add the red onions to a 16-oz. mason jar along with pickling spice, red pepper flakes, garlic, and dill, if using.
1 small red onion, Pickling spice, red pepper flakes, or garlic cloves, 3 fresh dill sprigs
Pour the warm solution over the red onions and let cool to room temperature. If there is any space left in the jar, pour additional water in until it just reaches the top.
Cover the jar with a lid and store in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or up to overnight before enjoying.
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Notes
Safety note: This is a quick pickling recipe, not a canning method. The onions must be stored in the fridge and are not shelf-stable. Do not attempt to store at room temperature.
Slicing: The thinner the better for the most flavor! If you have a mandoline like this one, pull it out! It's totally worth it.
Prep-Ahead: This recipe is best made ahead of time! You can make these onions at least four hours or up to several days in advance.
Storage: The onions will last in the refrigerator in an airtight jar for up to 2 to 3 weeks.