Quick Pickled Red Onions & Cucumbers
Bright pink crispy pickled red onion and cucumber ribbons for tacos, burgers, and grain bowls.
Add a pop of bright color and tangy crunch to any dish in just 10 minutes with this quick refrigerator pickle method.
Key Equipment
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Wire Whisk
Chef's Pro-Tips
- Mise en Place: Measure and prep all ingredients before you turn on the stove. This recipe moves quickly, and having everything ready prevents burning.
- Fresh is Best: Whenever possible, use freshly squeezed lemon juice, whole garlic cloves, and fresh herbs instead of dried/jarred versions. The flavor difference is huge!
- Don't Crowd the Pan: Leave room between ingredients. If the pan is overloaded, the moisture will steam the food instead of browning it.
Ingredients
8
servings
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1 large red onion, thinly sliced
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1 medium English cucumber, sliced into thin ribbons
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½ cup apple cider vinegar
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½ cup warm water
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1 tbsp maple syrup or sugar
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1.5 tsp fine sea salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Pack Jar
Pack sliced red onions and cucumber ribbons tightly into a clean glass jar.
Dissolve Brine
Whisk cider vinegar, warm water, maple syrup, and sea salt until dissolved.
Submerge & Chill
Pour brine over vegetables in jar. Let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes until bright pink, then store in fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Allow the food to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Yes! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Use our interactive servings adjuster at the top of the ingredients list! Simply click the '+' or '-' buttons to automatically scale all ingredient quantities up or down to match your guest count.
Absolutely! For gluten-free modifications, swap standard grains or soy sauces with tamari or certified gluten-free options. For plant-based alternatives, choose coconut milk or vegetable broth in place of dairy and chicken products.