Pickled red onions are the ultimate condiment—vibrant, tangy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking to elevate tacos, sandwiches, or salads, this Pickled Red Onions Recipe is a must-have in your kitchen. With the addition of lime slices and aromatic spices, this recipe offers a refreshing twist that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ready in no time, these Quick Pickled Red Onions are easy to make, keto-friendly, and perfect for adding a pop of flavor to your meals. Plus, they’re versatile enough to complement everything from veggie snacks to charcuterie boards.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: No need to wait days for your pickles to be ready—these onions are ready to enjoy in as little as 30 minutes.
- Bursting with Flavor: The tanginess of vinegar, the zest of lime, and the warmth of spices create a well-rounded flavor.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, spice level, or vinegar blend to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: These pickled veggies can be stored for weeks, making them perfect for meal planning.
Recipe: Pickled Red Onions with Lime and Spices
Ingredients
Makes 1 jar (16 oz)
- 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced
- 1 lime, thinly sliced
- 1 cup white vinegar (or a mix of white vinegar and apple cider vinegar)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar (or a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)
- 1 small jalapeño, sliced (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Onions and Lime
- Peel and thinly slice the red onions into rings or half-moons. Thinly slice the lime, removing any seeds.
- Place the onions and lime slices in a clean glass jar, layering them for even distribution.
2. Make the Pickling Brine
- In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
3. Assemble the Pickles
- Pour the hot brine over the onions and lime slices in the jar, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- If you like a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeño to the jar.
4. Let It Rest
- Allow the jar to cool to room temperature before sealing with a lid.
- For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though they taste even better after a few hours.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Use these Pickled Red Onions for Tacos, burgers, grain bowls, or as a zesty side for roasted vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Pickled Red Onions
- Slice Thinly: Thin slices absorb the brine quickly, resulting in faster pickling.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter pickle, add an extra teaspoon of sugar or a splash of honey.
- Experiment with Vinegars: Try swapping white vinegar for rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
- Keto-Friendly Option: Use a keto-friendly sweetener to make these keto pickles.
Variations
- Spicy Pickled Red Onions: Add a few red pepper flakes or more sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused Pickles: Add fresh herbs like dill or thyme to the jar for an herbal note.
- Mixed Pickled Vegetables Recipe: Include other veggies like carrots, radishes, or cucumber slices for a colorful pickle mix.
- Citrusy Twist: Use a combination of lime and orange slices for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Why Pickled Red Onions Are a Kitchen Essential
These Quick Pickled Red Onions are more than just a garnish—they’re a flavor powerhouse. Their tangy-sweet zestiness enhances tacos, burgers, and BBQ dishes, while their vibrant color adds visual appeal to any plate. Whether you’re meal prepping or just want to add something special to your dishes, pickled onions are the ultimate solution.
Serving Suggestions
- Tacos and Burritos: Use as a topping for fish, chicken, or vegetarian tacos.
- Salads and Grain Bowls: Add to salads, quinoa bowls, or roasted vegetable platters for extra zing.
- Sandwiches and Burgers: Layer on sandwiches, burgers, or wraps for a tangy crunch.
- Cheese Boards: Pair with cheeses and cured meats for a gourmet touch.
Storage
- Store the pickled onions in the refrigerator in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks. Ensure the onions remain submerged in the brine for freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Pickled Red Onions Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors. With minimal effort and a handful of pantry staples, you can create a versatile condiment that brightens up any dish.
So grab some red onions, a lime, and a few spices, and whip up a batch of these quick pickles. Whether you’re adding them to your favorite red onion recipes or enjoying them as a tangy veggie snack, these pickled onions are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.