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Chef Mise
Vibrant pink pickled red onion slices in a mason jar filled with brine on a rustic wooden table

Pickled Red Onions

Quick-pickled red onions that make everything better -- tacos, bowls, sandwiches.

Total: 30 minDifficulty: EasyYield: 1 serving

Timing note: 30 mins

VegetarianVeganGluten-Free

The Key Move

Ensure the vinegar brine is steaming hot before pouring over the sliced onions; this heat is crucial for softening them and initiating the pickling process.

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The Setup

  • Cutting Board
  • Chef's Knife

The Mise en Place

5 of 6

Your prep station before cooking begins

The Aromatics (0/1)

1 wholelarge red onion(thinly sliced)

The Spice Blend (0/1)

The Pantry (0/1)

The Finish (0/2)

My onions are still hard and taste raw after sitting.

Ah, it sounds like the brine in Step 1 wasn't quite hot enough when you poured it over the onions.

These onions are mushy and the color has faded.

That can happen if the onions were cut a bit too thick initially, or if the brine boiled too aggressively for too long, making it overly hot.

Chef's Notes

Tip

For thinner slices, use a mandoline. Be careful!

Tip

Press onions down in the jar to ensure they are submerged in brine.

Serving

Delicious on tacos, salads, sandwiches, or avocado toast.

Variation

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine for a spicy kick.

The Method

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