Grandma’s Special Jar Pickled Onions

• active time: 5 minutes
• total time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced

- 1 cup white vinegar

- ½ cup water

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon salt

- ½ teaspoon black peppercorns

- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds (optional)

- 2-3 slices of lime or lemon (optional)

instructions:

prep time: 5 minutes | cook time: 5 minutes | total time: 10 minutes | servings: 1 jar

Directions

1. prepare the onions:

- thinly slice the red onion and place the slices into a clean mason jar.

- add the peppercorns, mustard seeds, and lime or lemon slices if using.

2. make the brine:

- in a small saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.

- bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until sugar and salt dissolve.

3. pickle the onions:

- pour the hot brine over the onions in the jar, making sure they’re fully submerged.

- let the mixture cool to room temperature.

4. store and serve:

- seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

- enjoy on tacos, sandwiches, salads, or straight from the jar.

Notes

when people ask me what one thing never leaves my kitchen, i just smile and say, “my grandma’s special jar.” i swear, it’s like i have an infinite supply of these pickled onions. they go on everything—tacos, sandwiches, salads, even straight from the jar when no one’s looking. they save me time, add the perfect tangy crunch, and somehow make every meal feel just a little more special.

quick pickled red onions recipe 🧅🥒