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Vibrant pickled red onions in a clear glass jar.

Pickled Red Onions in 5 Days

These quick pickled red onions are incredibly easy to make and add a vibrant, tangy flavor to salads, tacos, eggs, and more. Ready in just 5 days!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 5 days 15 minutes
Servings: 4 jars
Calories: 25
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pickling Brine
  • 2 large red onions thinly sliced
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon peppercorns

Equipment

  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Sterilized Jars
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Thinly slice the red onions: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to achieve consistent, thin slices, which ensures even pickling.
  2. Pack the onions into clean jars: Tightly arrange the sliced onions into sterilized jars, leaving a small headspace for the brine.
Making the Brine
  1. Combine brine ingredients: In a saucepan, mix together apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and peppercorns.
  2. Heat until dissolved: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
Pickling Process
  1. Pour hot brine over onions: Carefully pour the hot brine over the packed red onions in the jars, ensuring all onions are submerged.
  2. Seal and cool: Secure the lids tightly, then allow the jars to cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating.
  3. Refrigerate for 5 days: Store in the refrigerator for at least 5 days to allow the flavors to fully develop before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh dill to each jar before pouring in the brine. Adjust sugar and salt to your taste.