What To Know
- In a clean jar or container with a lid, combine the sliced onion, apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- These pickled onions add a burst of flavor to a wide variety of dishes, from tacos to salads to sandwiches.
- Pickled onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making them a great condiment to have on hand.
Pickled onions are a versatile condiment that instantly elevates the taste of tacos, burgers, salads, and sandwiches. However, making traditional pickled onions often involves a lengthy boiling process. This no-cook pickled onion recipe offers a quick and effortless way to enjoy the same tangy and crunchy goodness without the hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Onion: Thinly slice the red onion using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.
2. Combine the Ingredients: In a clean jar or container with a lid, combine the sliced onion, apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Shake Vigorously: Securely close the lid and shake the jar vigorously for several minutes to dissolve the sugar and salt.
4. Refrigerate: Transfer the pickled onions to the refrigerator and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
5. Enjoy: Your no-cook pickled onions are now ready to enjoy! They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Benefits of No-Cook Pickled Onions
- Quick and Easy: No boiling or cooking is required, making this recipe incredibly convenient.
- Healthier: By avoiding the boiling process, you preserve more of the onion’s nutrients and antioxidants.
- Versatile: These pickled onions add a burst of flavor to a wide variety of dishes, from tacos to salads to sandwiches.
- Long Shelf Life: Pickled onions can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, making them a great condiment to have on hand.
Tips for Perfect Pickled Onions
- Use a Sharp Knife: Thinly slicing the onion ensures even marinating and a crisp texture.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality red onions and apple cider vinegar for the best flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to add more or less red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences.
- Experiment with Different Flavors: Try adding other spices or herbs, such as dill, mustard seeds, or bay leaves, to create unique flavor combinations.
- Use Pickling Liquid: The leftover pickling liquid can be used as a flavorful vinegar in salad dressings or marinades.
Creative Uses for No-Cook Pickled Onions
- Tacos: Top tacos with pickled onions for a tangy and refreshing crunch.
- Burgers: Add pickled onions to burgers for a sweet and savory contrast.
- Salads: Incorporate pickled onions into salads for a burst of flavor and color.
- Sandwiches: Use pickled onions as a topping on sandwiches for a bright and acidic touch.
- Pizza: Sprinkle pickled onions on pizza for a unique and flavorful twist.
- Cocktails: Garnish cocktails with pickled onions for a salty and tangy twist.
No-Cook Pickled Onion Recipe Variations
- White Wine Vinegar: Substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar for a milder and more delicate flavor.
- Honey: Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey to the pickling liquid for a sweeter and more balanced taste.
- Mustard Seeds: Add 1 teaspoon of mustard seeds to the jar for a slightly spicy and tangy flavor.
- Dill: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh dill to the jar for a herbaceous and aromatic touch.
- Pickled Garlic: Add 2-3 cloves of pickled garlic to the jar for a more complex and savory flavor.
What You Need to Know
- Q: How long do no-cook pickled onions last?
- A: No-cook pickled onions will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Q: Can I use different types of vinegar?
- A: Yes, you can use white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, or any other type of vinegar you prefer.
- Q: Can I add other spices or herbs?
- A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs, such as dill, mustard seeds, or bay leaves.
- Q: Can I use the leftover pickling liquid?
- A: Yes, the leftover pickling liquid can be used as a flavorful vinegar in salad dressings or marinades.
- Q: Can I make a larger batch of pickled onions?
- A: Yes, simply double or triple the ingredients and use a larger jar or container.
