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Quick Zesty Pickled Onions in 15 Minutes

quick zesty pickled onions - featured image
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Transform any meal with these quick and easy pickled onions. Ready in just 15 minutes, they add a vibrant, tangy crunch to tacos, salads, sandwiches, and more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large red onion (about 250g), thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (120 ml)
  • 1/2 cup water (120 ml)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar (about 20g)
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (about 5g)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2–3 black peppercorns (optional)
  • 1 clove garlic, smashed (optional)

Instructions

  1. Slice the onion: Peel the red onion, cut in half through the root end, and slice into thin half-moons about 1/8-inch thick.
  2. Place the sliced onion in a glass bowl or jar. Add any optional spices (red pepper flakes, peppercorns, garlic) if using.
  3. Make the brine: In a small saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Pour the hot brine over the onions, ensuring all slices are submerged. The onions will start to turn pink immediately.
  5. Let sit for 10-15 minutes. Stir gently after 5 minutes to ensure even pickling.
  6. Check for doneness: After 10 minutes, taste a slice. It should be slightly softened but still crunchy. Adjust time as desired.
  7. Cool and use or store: If using immediately, let cool slightly. For storage, cool to room temperature, then transfer onions and brine to a sealed jar and refrigerate.

Notes

Don’t throw away the leftover pickling liquid! It’s fantastic for adding a tangy kick to salad dressings, marinades, or even a bloody mary. For a crunchier texture, slice onions 1/8-inch thick and don’t let them sit in the hot brine for more than 15 minutes. The flavor deepens and mellows over the first few days in the fridge.

Nutrition

Keywords: pickled onions, quick pickled onions, easy pickled onions, red onion pickles, 15 minute pickled onions, zesty pickled onions

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/quick-zesty-pickled-onions-in-15-minutes/