Pickled Red Onion Recipe (Easy & Healthy!)

Pickled red onions are a delicious, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment that enhances many dishes. They are easy to prepare, last for weeks in the fridge, and may offer health benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and providing antioxidants.

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 2–3 medium red onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1 cup vinegar (apple cider vinegar, white vinegar, or a mix of both)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1–2 tablespoons honey or sugar (for sweetness, adjust based on taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

  • ½ teaspoon black peppercorns (adds a subtle spice)
  • 1–2 cloves garlic (for a mild garlic infusion)
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • 1 small cinnamon stick (adds warmth to the flavor)
  • 1 bay leaf (for depth in taste)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Onions

  • Peel the red onions and slice them very thinly (using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer). Thin slices absorb the pickling brine quickly.
  • Place the onion slices in a clean, heatproof glass jar (such as a mason jar).

Step 2: Make the Pickling Liquid

  • In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, salt, and sugar/honey.
  • Heat over medium until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. (No need to boil; just warm it up.)
  • Remove from heat and add any optional ingredients, like garlic, peppercorns, or bay leaves.

Step 3: Pour & Pack the Jar

  • Pour the warm pickling liquid over the onions, ensuring all slices are submerged.
  • Use a clean spoon to press the onions down into the liquid.
  • If needed, add a little extra vinegar to fully cover the onions.

Step 4: Let it Sit & Pickle

  • Let the jar cool to room temperature before sealing with a lid.
  • Store in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before eating, but for the best flavor, let it sit for 12–24 hours.

Storage & Usage:

  • Pickled onions last 2–3 weeks in the fridge.
  • The flavor intensifies over time, making them even better after a few days!
  • Use a clean spoon each time to avoid contamination.

Ways to Use Pickled Red Onions:

✔ Add to tacos (chicken, fish, beef, or vegetarian)
✔ Top on salads for a tangy crunch
✔ Mix into sandwiches, wraps, or burgers
✔ Serve with grilled meats or seafood
✔ Use as a garnish for rice bowls or Buddha bowls
✔ Pair with cheese platters and charcuterie boards

Possible Health Benefits (Based on the Image)

The image suggests that pickled onions may help with back pain relief. While there is no scientific proof that onions directly relieve pain, they contain:

✅ Quercetin – A natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties, which might help reduce inflammation in joints and muscles.
✅ Sulfur Compounds – Found in onions, which may support detoxification and reduce oxidative stress.
✅ Probiotics (from fermentation, if naturally pickled) – Beneficial for gut health, which is linked to reduced inflammation in the body.
✅ Vitamin C & B6 – Essential for tissue repair and nervous system function.

Final Thoughts

Pickled red onions are not only delicious but also nutritious! Whether you’re eating them for their possible health benefits or just for the amazing flavor, they are a fantastic addition to your diet.

Would you like a variation with fermented onions for additional probiotic benefits? 😊