Quick Pickled Onions are a tangy, crunchy, and colorful addition to any dish—from tacos to grain bowls. Made with just red onion, vinegar, sugar, and salt, they’re ready in 30 minutes and perfect for meal prep. Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for easy flavor boosts.
Prepare the Onion - Thinly slice the red onion using a sharp knife or mandoline for even slices.
Make the Brine - In a heatproof bowl or jar, combine hot water, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
Pickle the Onion - Add the sliced red onions to the brine. Make sure they're fully submerged. Press down if needed.
Rest & Store - Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using. For best flavor, refrigerate for 1–2 hours. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Optional Add-Ins:
½ teaspoon mustard seeds or coriander seeds for extra flavor
A few peppercorns or a garlic clove for depth
A small slice of jalapeño for heat
Swaps:
Use rice vinegar for a lighter flavor.
Coconut sugar or agave can substitute the sugar.
Meal Prep Tip:
Double or triple the batch and store in individual jars for grab-and-go use during the week.
8 servings
1/4 Cup
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
