Quick Pickled Onions Recipe

Are you looking to add a burst of flavor and vibrant color to your dishes? Look no further than this Quick Pickled Onions recipe! These tangy, crunchy onions are the perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, tacos, or even as a simple garnish to elevate your favorite dishes. Once you try these homemade pickled onions, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions! Let’s get started on this easy and delicious recipe.

**Quick Pickled Onions Recipe**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
– 1 bay leaf
– Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Onions:** Start by thinly slicing the red onion into half-moon shapes. For a milder flavor, soak the sliced onions in a bowl of cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry. This step helps to remove some of the sharpness from the onions.

2. **Make the Pickling Liquid:** In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, and bay leaf. If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the liquid cool slightly.

3. **Combine Onions and Pickling Liquid:** Place the sliced onions in a clean glass jar or container that has a tight-fitting lid. Carefully pour the warm pickling liquid over the onions, ensuring they are completely submerged. The liquid should cover the onions entirely to pickle them evenly.

4. **Chill and Marinate:** Allow the pickled onions to cool to room temperature before sealing the jar with the lid. Then, transfer the jar to the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to marinate. For optimal flavor, refrigerate the pickled onions for 24 hours before using. The longer they sit, the better the flavors will develop.

5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the pickled onions have had time to marinate, they are ready to be enjoyed! Spoon them onto your favorite dishes as a zesty topping or side. These pickled onions will add a burst of tangy sweetness and crunch to any meal.

6. **Storage:** Store any leftover pickled onions in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making them even more delicious with each passing day.

By making your own Quick Pickled Onions at home, you can easily enhance the flavors of your meals with a tangy and colorful twist. This versatile condiment is the perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, tacos, burgers, and more. Impress your family and friends with these homemade pickled onions and elevate your dishes to a whole new level of deliciousness. Cheers to adding a little zing to your plate!