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If you are looking for the perfect topping to brighten up tacos, sandwiches, burgers, salads, or roasted meats, then pickled red onions are exactly what you need. They add a balance of tangy, sweet, and slightly sharp flavor that lifts almost any dish. Pickled red onions are one of the most versatile condiments you can keep in your kitchen. They are quick to make, last for weeks when stored properly, and bring a vibrant splash of color to your plate. Whether you are searching for easy homemade pickles, the best taco toppings, or simple recipes to elevate weeknight dinners, pickled red onions should be on your list.
Why Pickled Red Onions Are A Kitchen Essential
There are few condiments as simple yet as powerful as pickled red onions. When raw, red onions can sometimes feel harsh and overpowering. But when you pickle them, they become soft, tangy, and balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. The sharp edges disappear, leaving behind a condiment that complements rather than dominates.
Pickled red onions are also visually beautiful. Their bright pink color makes every dish more appealing. Even the simplest meals look special when topped with a spoonful. From tacos and kebabs to grain bowls and salads, the pop of pink is just as satisfying as the burst of flavor. This combination of looks and taste is why so many home cooks consider pickled red onions an essential kitchen staple.
See how to make the recipe in this video. (You’ll also learn how to make lamb confit and tomato confit sauce.)
What Is Spirit Vinegar
One of the key ingredients in pickled red onions is spirit vinegar, known in Swedish as ättiksprit. Spirit vinegar is a clear, strong vinegar made by fermenting diluted alcohol. It is often sold at a higher concentration than regular table vinegar, which means it has a sharper acidity and a cleaner flavor. This makes it excellent for pickling, because it preserves the onions while giving them a bright, crisp taste.
In Sweden, ättiksprit is a staple for pickling cucumbers, onions, and other vegetables. It is reliable, affordable, and gives a consistent result. If you cannot find spirit vinegar where you live, you can substitute with white distilled vinegar. Just make sure it has a similar acidity level to achieve the same preserving effect. Using spirit vinegar ensures that your pickled red onions will not only taste great but will also stay safe and fresh in storage.
Why Add Chili To Pickled Red Onions
I love adding chili to my pickled red onions. It is completely optional, but it adds a subtle heat that lingers behind the tangy sweetness. A sliced red chili pepper infuses the pickling liquid with a gentle spice, making the onions even more interesting. If you enjoy spicy food, this is a variation worth trying. The chili flavor blends smoothly with the onions and does not overpower them. Instead, it adds depth and warmth, turning a classic condiment into something with a little extra character.
For those who prefer milder flavors, you can skip the chili and stick with the traditional version. The onions will still have their signature balance of tangy and sweet, and they will remain just as versatile. Pickled red onions are forgiving, and part of their charm is how easily you can adapt them to your own taste.
What To Eat With Pickled Red Onions
The beauty of pickled red onions is their versatility. They pair well with so many foods that you may find yourself reaching for them every day. They are perfect on tacos, especially with roasted meats, fish, or grilled vegetables. In sandwiches and burgers, they provide a sharp contrast that cuts through the richness of cheese and sauces. On salads, they add brightness and texture, balancing greens, grains, and proteins with a tangy crunch.
They also make an excellent topping for grilled chicken, lamb, or beef. The acidity of the pickling liquid works like a sauce, lifting heavy flavors and refreshing the palate. Even simple dishes like scrambled eggs or avocado toast become more exciting when topped with a spoonful of pickled red onions. Once you have a jar in the fridge, you will quickly realize how often they come in handy.
Pickled red onions go well with so many dishes. If you want an amazing dish to pair it with, you should try my smoked salmon tacos. I’ve linked the recipe below.
When making pickled red onions, the choice of jar matters. It is important to use a clean, heatproof glass jar with a secure lid. I recommend using sturdy glass jars like these ones. They are durable, easy to sterilize, and have airtight lids that keep the onions fresh. Glass jars are also non-reactive, which is essential when working with vinegar.
Before filling the jar, make sure it is washed and rinsed thoroughly. Some people like to sterilize jars by pouring boiling water over them or running them through a dishwasher cycle. This step ensures your pickled red onions stay fresh for longer and prevents any unwanted bacteria from affecting the flavor. A good jar not only keeps your onions safe but also makes them easy to store and serve straight from the fridge.
How Long Do Pickled Red Onions Last
One of the best things about pickled red onions is how long they keep. Stored in a sealed glass jar in the fridge, they can last up to three weeks. In fact, many people find that the flavor improves after the first day or two, once the onions have had more time to absorb the pickling liquid.
The key to longevity is proper storage. Always use a clean spoon or fork when serving onions from the jar, and avoid leaving it open for too long at room temperature. The vinegar acts as a natural preservative, but good habits help extend freshness. If stored properly, you will always have a tangy, flavorful topping ready to go whenever you need it.
Why You Should Always Have Pickled Red Onions In The Fridge
Pickled red onions are more than just a garnish. They are a flavor booster that can transform everyday meals. Having a jar ready in the fridge means you can instantly upgrade tacos, salads, roasted meats, or even a simple sandwich. They are quick to make, inexpensive, and rewarding.
Making them at home also gives you control over flavor. You can adjust the sweetness, acidity, and spice level to your liking. Whether you keep them simple or add chili for a kick, homemade pickled red onions will always taste fresher and brighter than store-bought versions.
A Staple That Goes With Almost Everything
Pickled red onions are one of the easiest ways to bring more flavor and color to your cooking. With just red onions, spirit vinegar, sugar, and spices, you create a condiment that lasts for weeks and improves almost everything it touches. Add chili if you like a little heat, choose a sturdy glass jar to store them safely, and enjoy the versatility of having them always within reach.
They are perfect with tacos, burgers, sandwiches, grilled meats, and salads. They last long, they are beautiful, and they are delicious. Once you start making your own pickled red onions, you will wonder how you ever lived without them. Enjoy!athering or simply as a treat for yourself, this pistachio honey cake will be a recipe that stays with you.
Pickled red onions are the ultimate topping for tacos, sandwiches, salads, and grilled meats. Made with spirit vinegar for bright flavor, they are easy to prepare, last for weeks in a jar, and add a pop of color and tang to any meal.
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:1 medium jar 1x
Ingredients
Scale
4 red onions, sliced
1 red chili pepper, sliced (optional)
3 dl (1 ¼ cups) water
1 ½ dl (⅔ cup) spirit vinegar
2 dl (¾ cup plus 1 tbsp) sugar
2–3 bay leaves
2 tsp black peppercorns
Instructions
Add the water, spirit vinegar, sugar, bay leaves, and black peppercorns to a pot. Heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
Place the red onion and chili pepper slices in a clean glass jar. Pour the hot liquid over the onions, making sure they are fully submerged.
Close the jar and let it cool to room temperature.
Store in the fridge and enjoy as a side dish or a topping for many different meals.
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