Imagine a condiment so versatile and flavor-packed that it can instantly elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary! These Quick Pickled Vidalia Onions are not just a simple side, but a culinary game-changer that will add a tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy kick to everything from sandwiches and salads to tacos and grilled meats. In just minutes, you'll create a gourmet condiment that looks like it came straight from a trendy restaurant's kitchen, all while impressing your family and friends with your seemingly professional pickling skills.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 jar
Ingredients
- 1 large Vidalia onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vidalia onion by peeling off the outer papery skin and trimming both ends. Using a sharp knife or mandoline, slice the onion extremely thin, creating delicate, translucent rings.
- In a medium non-reactive bowl, combine white or apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt. Whisk the mixture vigorously until the sugar and salt completely dissolve, creating a clear pickling liquid.
- Add black peppercorns and red pepper flakes (if using) to the liquid, stirring to distribute the spices evenly throughout the pickling solution.
- Place the thinly sliced Vidalia onion rings into a clean glass jar or container, gently separating the rings to ensure they will be fully exposed to the pickling liquid.
- Pour the prepared vinegar mixture over the onion rings, making sure they are completely submerged. If needed, press down gently with a spoon to ensure full coverage.
- Allow the onions to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to 1 hour, during which time they will soften and begin to pickle, developing a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
- For best results, cover and refrigerate the pickled onions. They will keep well for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, with flavor intensifying over time.
Tips
- Use a mandoline slicer for consistently thin and uniform onion rings, which ensures even pickling and a professional look.
- Choose fresh, crisp Vidalia onions for the best texture and sweetness.
- For a milder onion flavor, you can briefly soak the sliced onions in ice water for 10 minutes before pickling.
- Experiment with different vinegars like rice wine or champagne vinegar for unique flavor profiles.
- Add herbs like fresh dill or thyme to the pickling liquid for extra complexity.
- Always use a clean, sterilized jar to prevent bacterial growth and extend shelf life.
- Let the onions marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving, but for the most intense flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
