How to Make Pickled Red Onions

Introduction

Pickled red onions are a colorful, tangy, and crunchy condiment that elevate any dish with their vibrant flavor and eye-catching hue. Whether you’re topping tacos, salads, sandwiches, or avocado toast, these zingy slices add a burst of acidity and sweetness that complements both savory and spicy dishes.

The great news? They’re incredibly easy to make at home using a handful of pantry staples. This guide will walk you through the process of creating a delicious jar of pickled red onions from scratch, while also highlighting the health benefits, nutritional value, and creative ways to enjoy them.

Ingredients

• 2 small red onions (thinly sliced)
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 1/3 cup cane sugar
• 2 tablespoons sea salt
• 2 garlic cloves (smashed)
• 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns

Equipment Needed

• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• Medium saucepan
• Mason jar or glass container with a lid
• Small mixing bowl
• Spoon for stirring

Preparation Time:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 5 minutes
• Pickling time: 1 hour minimum (overnight for best flavor)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

Peel and thinly slice the red onions into rings. For even slicing, use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. Place the sliced onions in a heatproof bowl or directly into a sterilized jar.

Step 2: Make the Pickling Brine

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Add Flavor Boosters

Smash the garlic cloves and add them to the brine along with the mixed peppercorns. Let the brine sit for a minute or two to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Combine & Cool

Carefully pour the hot brine over the sliced onions in the jar, making sure the onions are fully submerged. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before sealing the jar.

Step 5: Let it Pickle

Seal the jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator. The onions will start to pickle within an hour, but for best flavor, let them sit overnight.

Serving Suggestions

• On Avocado Toast: Add a crunchy, tangy layer to creamy avocado and crusty bread.
• In Tacos: A classic topping that adds brightness and zing.
• In Salads: Toss with greens for a pop of flavor and color.
• On Burgers or Sandwiches: Skip the raw onions—these add more complexity.
• With Cheese Platters: A lovely contrast to creamy cheeses and charcuterie.

Step-by-Step Methods: How to Make Pickled Red Onions

Step 1: Slice the Onions

• Peel 2 small red onions and slice them thinly into rings.
• You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline for consistent thickness.
• Place the sliced onions in a clean, heat-safe glass jar or bowl.

Step 2: Prepare the Pickling Brine

• In a medium saucepan, combine the following:
• 2 cups white vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 1/3 cup cane sugar
• 2 tablespoons sea salt
• Place the saucepan over medium heat.
• Stir gently and heat the mixture until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved (about 3–5 minutes). Do not boil.

Step 3: Add Flavor to the Brine

• Smash 2 garlic cloves and add them to the warm brine.
• Add 1 teaspoon of mixed peppercorns (or use black, pink, or green peppercorns depending on your taste).
• Allow the brine to sit for a couple of minutes to absorb the garlic and peppercorn flavors.

Step 4: Pour the Brine Over the Onions

• Carefully pour the hot brine (with garlic and peppercorns) over the sliced onions in the jar.
• Press the onions down with a spoon or fork to make sure they’re fully submerged in the liquid.
• Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes to cool slightly.

Step 5: Seal and Refrigerate

• Once the jar has cooled, tightly seal it with a lid.
• Place the jar in the refrigerator.
• The onions will begin to pickle after about 1 hour, but the flavor intensifies if left overnight.

Step 6: Enjoy!

• Your pickled red onions are now ready to enjoy!
• They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.
• Always use a clean utensil to take them out to preserve freshness.

Health Benefits of Pickled Red Onions

• Rich in Antioxidants: Red onions contain anthocyanins and quercetin which support immune function and heart health.
• Digestive Boost: The vinegar used in pickling supports gut health and balances pH.
• Low in Calories: Great for weight management without sacrificing flavor.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Garlic and onions both have natural anti-inflammatory effects.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: Vinegar has been shown to help moderate blood sugar levels.

1. Rich in Antioxidants

• Red onions are loaded with powerful antioxidants like quercetin and anthocyanins, which help protect your cells from damage and reduce inflammation.

2. Supports Heart Health

• The combination of red onions and garlic helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and improve circulation, contributing to overall heart health.

3. Boosts Digestion

• The vinegar used in pickling contains acetic acid, which can enhance the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, improving digestion and nutrient absorption.

4. Stabilizes Blood Sugar Levels

• Studies show that vinegar can help reduce blood sugar spikes after meals, which is great for people with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.

5. Low in Calories, Big in Flavor

• One serving of pickled red onions is very low in calories (around 25 kcal per 1/4 cup), making them a great way to add flavor without extra fat or sugar.

6. Anti-inflammatory Effects

• Garlic and onions both have compounds that help reduce inflammation in the body, which can aid in preventing chronic diseases.

Culinary Benefits

1. Enhances Flavors

• Adds a balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes to a variety of dishes, from tacos to sandwiches.

2. Adds Color to Your Plate

• Their beautiful pink hue adds a visual appeal that makes your dishes look gourmet, even when they’re simple.

3. Versatile

• They pair well with nearly everything: meats, cheeses, eggs, salads, grains, and even fruit.

Practical Benefits

1. Quick and Easy to Make

• No need for canning or fermentation skills. The recipe comes together in about 10 minutes of hands-on time.

2. Long Shelf Life

• Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 weeks, so you always have a ready-to-use, flavorful topping.

3. Zero Preservatives

• Unlike store-bought pickles, homemade versions are free from additives and preservatives.

4. Budget-Friendly

• Just a few basic ingredients create a gourmet-level condiment that would cost more at the store or restaurant.

Nutritional Information (Per 1/4 cup serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~25 kcal
Carbohydrates	~6g
Sugar	~4g
Sodium	~200mg
Fiber	~1g
Fat	0g
Protein	~0.5g

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary.)

Nutritional Information (per 1/4 cup serving)

Nutrient	Approximate Amount
Calories	25 kcal
Carbohydrates	6 g
Sugars	4 g
Dietary Fiber	1 g
Protein	0.5 g
Fat	0 g
Sodium	200–300 mg (varies by salt)
Vitamin C	2–4% DV
Vitamin B6	2% DV
Potassium	40–60 mg
Calcium	1–2% DV
Iron	1% DV

DV = Daily Value (based on a 2,000 calorie diet)

Key Points

• Low Calorie: Only ~25 kcal per serving, making it an ideal topping for those watching their calorie intake.
• Low Fat: Contains zero fat, which makes it heart-friendly and light.
• Good Fiber Source: Offers a small boost in dietary fiber for gut health.
• Naturally Low in Sugar: Though cane sugar is used, the amount per serving is modest.
• Sodium Content: It does contain sodium from sea salt, so those watching salt intake should use moderately.
• Micronutrients: Small amounts of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C, B6, potassium, and iron are present due to the onions and garlic.

Storage Tips

Store your pickled onions in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 weeks, although they’re usually so delicious, they’ll be gone much sooner!

Fun Fact: The Lovera Effect

You may wonder—what is Lovera? It’s not an ingredient but a feeling—a loving aura you get when sharing food made with care. Pickled red onions aren’t just a recipe; they’re a labor of love, a splash of color, and a burst of joy on the plate. Share them with someone you love and watch how food brings people closer together.

Conclusion

Making pickled red onions at home is a simple yet powerful way to brighten your meals and add a punch of nutrition to your diet. With minimal ingredients, zero preservatives, and maximum flavor, this easy condiment becomes a kitchen staple you’ll return to again and again.

So grab a couple of red onions, some vinegar, and a jar—then let the magic of pickling add a little lovera to your table!