How to Make and Enjoy Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions aren't just a colorful garnish — they’re a zesty, sweet addition that enhances everything from sandwiches to salads, soups, dips, and beyond. Don't forget, the brine can also be used to craft unique cocktails.

Watch Nicole McLaughlin, known as NicoleMcmom, demonstrate how simple it is to pickle red onions at home. She also shares 10 creative ways to use them, making any meal more flavorful. Be sure to check out her recipe and expert tips below.

How to Create Pickled Red Onions

A close-up view of a glass jar filled with homemade pickled red onions.

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Nicole's Recipe for the Ultimate Pickled Onions

Bright, crisp, and refreshing pickled onions that are easy to prepare and perfect for spicing up sandwiches, salads, charcuterie, tacos, and much more. Don't forget, the leftover brine is great for making dressings or marinades. These onions add a tangy kick to complement rich and savory dishes. —NicoleMcmom

Ingredients List

3 medium red onions
2 cloves garlic, or to taste
1 medium jalapeño pepper, sliced, or to taste
2 bay leaves
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
3 cups apple cider vinegar
1 ½ cups water
⅓ cup white sugar
4 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

Step-by-Step Instructions

Thinly slice the onions and pack them tightly into two 1-quart glass jars or one large bowl. Add garlic cloves, jalapeno slices, bay leaves, and pepper flakes.
In a medium saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and peppercorns over medium-high heat. Stir often and bring to a simmer until sugar and salt dissolve. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for 10 minutes.
Pour the warm liquid over the onions, pressing down if needed to submerge them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. Serve right away or keep refrigerated for up to 1 month.

10 Creative Ways to Enjoy Pickled Red Onions

Sandwiches: Add a tangy kick to deli sandwiches, burgers, or BBQ sandwiches.
Tacos: The sweet acidity pairs perfectly with fish tacos or carnitas.
Salads with Mayo: Mix chopped pickled red onions into egg or potato salads, or use them as a topping for deviled eggs.
Green Salads: Enhance any salad with the bold flavor and vibrant color of pickled red onions.
Hot Dogs: Replace your usual relish with pickled onions for an extra burst of flavor.
Stews and Chilis: The tangy sweetness of pickled onions balances the richness of hearty stews and chilis.
Avocado Toast: Bright pink pickled onions make the perfect topping for avocado toast — it's both a visual treat and delicious!
Dips: Add chopped pickled onions to creamy dips like artichoke dip or mix them into pimento cheese for extra zing.
Salad Dressings or Marinades: Use the leftover pickling liquid to make marinades or salad dressings.
Cocktails: Combine pickled red onion brine with gin for a pink Gibson cocktail — it's a new twist on a classic drink!