Quick Sweet Pickled Red Onions – Simple 5-Ingredient Recipe

Crisp, tangy, and naturally sweet, ready in minutes!

These quick sweet pickled red onions are my go-to topping for bowls, tacos, sandwiches, and salads. With just five simple ingredients, you get a bright, tangy, naturally sweet flavor that transforms any dish, no canning or long wait required.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & easy: Ready in 10–15 minutes

• Naturally sweet: Maple syrup balances the tang of lemon juice

• Versatile: Perfect for topping tacos, grain bowls, sandwiches, and more

What Are Quick Sweet Pickled Red Onions?

Quick sweet pickled red onions are thinly sliced onions soaked in a simple sweet-and-sour mixture. Unlike traditional pickles, they don’t require heating or long fermentation—just a quick soak in lemon juice, maple syrup, and salt to create that punchy, tangy flavor with a hint of sweetness.

Ingredients & Substitutes

Ingredients

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced – Crisp, colorful base

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice – Provides tang and brightens flavor

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup – Adds natural sweetness

• ½ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness

Substitutes

• Lemon juice → Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar

• Maple syrup → Agave syrup or coconut sugar

• Red onion → Shallots or white onions (milder flavor)

Recipe Variations

• Smoked flavor: Add some smoked paprika

• Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a sliced jalapeño

• Herbed: Stir in fresh thyme, dill, or oregano for extra flavor

• Garlic-Infused: Add 1 clove crushed garlic to the pickling liquid

How to Make Quick Sweet Pickled Red Onions

• Thinly slice the red onion and place it in a small bowl or jar.
• Pour over the lemon juice and maple syrup.
• Sprinkle with sea salt and toss to combine evenly.
• Let sit for at least 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tip: For a stronger flavor, let the onions sit for 30–60 minutes in the fridge.

How to Use / Serve

• Add over my delicious nachos recipe

• Top tacos, burgers, or sandwiches

• Add to grain bowls or salads

• Serve alongside roasted vegetables or plant-based nachos

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week

• Freezer: Not recommended

• Room Temp: Serve fresh; refrigerate leftovers

FAQs & Tips

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! They actually taste even better after a few hours in the fridge.

Q: Will they be too sour?
A: The maple syrup balances the acidity, giving a sweet-and-tangy flavor that’s not overpowering.

Equipment

• Small mixing bowl or jar

• Knife for slicing onions

• Spoon or tongs to toss

Print

Quick Sweet Pickled Red Onions

These quick sweet pickled red onions are my go-to topping for bowls, tacos, sandwiches, and salads. With just five simple ingredients, you get a bright, tangy, naturally sweet flavor that transforms any dish, no canning or long wait required.

Author admin

Ingredients

• 1 medium red onion thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• ½ teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

• Thinly slice the red onion and place it in a small bowl or jar.
• Pour over the lemon juice and maple syrup.
• Sprinkle with sea salt and toss until evenly coated.
• Let sit for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, stirring occasionally.

Notes

Optional: For a stronger flavor, refrigerate for 30–60 minutes before serving.

Let’s Connect!

Try this quick sweet pickled red onions recipe and share your favorite way to enjoy them! Comment, rate, or tag me on social media (@thebiblediet on Instagram) I’d love to see your colorful creations.