Oh, onions! They make us cry, but we just can’t stay away from them, can we?
Transforming from pungent bulbs to a tangy, flavorful bites, pickled onions turn the tear-inducing into a taste sensation.
Today, I’m sharing a personal favorite- lemon pickled onions. I stumbled upon this recipe during one of my kitchen experiments, and it’s been a favorite ever since.
Hold onto your jars; we’re diving into a pickling journey that’s equal parts delightful and delicious!
Lemon Pickled Onions Recipe
Equipment
- 1 16oz pickling jar
- 1 Small Saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 large red onion
- 6 ounces vinegar- Distilled, Apple Cider, or White Wine
- 6 ounces water
- 1 ounce lemon juice (approx. one lemon)
- 1 tbsp sea salt- It's best not to use table salt since it has iodine and anti-caking additives, which can cause the pickling liquid to turn cloudy and change the color of what you're pickling.
- 1 tbsp sugar- For a low-carb or keto option, try using monk fruit or other types of sweeteners.
- Optional- 1 tsp of whole black peppercorns
- Optional- 1 tsp of mustard seeds
- Optional- 1 tsp of crushed red pepper
Instructions
- Let's start with the onions. Thinly slice that red onion – and I mean thinly. We want these guys to soak up all that lemony goodness!
- Now, take those beautifully sliced onions and place them in a sterilized, heat-proof jar.
- Grab a saucepan and throw in your water, choice of vinegar, lemon juice, sugar, and salt. Crank up the heat and bring it to a boil, giving it a good stir to dissolve the sugar and salt.
- Pour the hot brine over the onions, leaving room for the lemon juice.
- Add the lemon juice, then top off with additional brine if needed to ensure the onions are completely covered.
- Let the jar cool to room temperature, then seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let them sit for a day or two.
Notes
Nutrition
Food Pairing Ideas for Lemon Pickled Onions
Integrating pickled onions into your meals can elevate simple dishes to new heights of flavor. Here are some pairing ideas to inspire your culinary creativity, showcasing how versatile these tangy onions can be:
- Tacos and Fajitas: The sharp tang of pickled onions cuts through the richness of grilled meats and creamy guacamole, adding a refreshing crunch and brightness to each bite.
- Grilled Cheese and Sandwiches: Elevate your sandwich game by adding a layer for an unexpected pop of flavor that complements both meat and vegetable fillings.
- Salads: Scatter a handful over your greens to introduce a zesty contrast to earthy vegetables and a tangy complement to vinaigrette dressings.
- Grilled or Roasted Meats: Whether it’s chicken, pork, or beef, the acidity of the onions balances the savory flavors of the meat, bringing a welcome freshness to the plate.
- Cheese Boards: Pair with a variety of cheeses, from creamy to hard, to cut through the richness with their vibrant acidity, adding both color and contrast to your platter.
- Fish and Seafood: Their lemony zest is particularly well-suited to seafood, offering a bright counterpoint to the delicate flavors of fish, shrimp, and scallops.
- Rice and Grain Bowls: Sprinkle them over bowls of rice or grains along with your favorite proteins and vegetables for a meal that’s both balanced and full of flavor.
- Eggs: Transform your breakfast by topping off omelets, scrambles, or avocado toast with a spoonful for a burst of tangy taste.
Craving a twist on the classic pickled onion with a hint of sweetness? Let balsamic vinegar pickled onions be your next delicious discovery!
Spice Suggestions for Your Lemon Pickled Onions Recipe
Crafting my lemon pickled onions recipe has been an adventure in balancing flavors to achieve that perfect tangy zest.
Here’s a list of spices that harmonize beautifully with the lemony sharpness:
- Mustard Seeds: These bring a tangy and slightly spicy kick, complementing the lemon’s zest without overwhelming it.
- Coriander Seeds: Their light citrus note is a natural fit for lemon pickled onions, enhancing the overall freshness.
- Black Peppercorns: Offering a bold, earthy contrast that anchors the zesty flavors of the lemon and onions.
- Bay Leaves: They infuse a subtle herbal essence, marrying well with the acidity of the lemon.
- Fennel Seeds: Their mild, sweet licorice flavor adds an interesting twist, pairing wonderfully with the lemon’s brightness.
- Dill Seeds or Fresh Dill: Introduces a pop of herby freshness, echoing the clean, crisp nature of the lemon.
- Red Chili Flakes: Just enough to give a hint of heat, balancing the tangy sweetness of the lemon and onions without dominating.
Embrace the Joy of Spices and Vinegars in Your Pickling Adventures!
I’ve found that venturing into the diverse world of spices and seasonings opens up a realm of possibilities for personalizing my pickling recipes.
It’s a playground for the senses, and I encourage you to dive in with both hands. Mix and match, bring in a beloved spice, or perhaps a family favorite, into your concoction.
The essence of pickling, for me, is in creating something that resonates with my own tastes.
And, oh, the transformative power of vinegars in pickling cannot be overstated.
I’ve been amazed time and again at how the choice of vinegar, ranging from the crisp, sharp bite of white vinegar to the gentle, nuanced sweetness of apple cider vinegar, can completely redefine a recipe.
Each type of vinegar whispers its own secret, inviting me—and now you—to embark on a journey of discovery and experimentation.
Join Our Zesty Adventure
Making lemon pickled onions has been a fresh twist in my pickling adventures, bringing new flavors and methods to light. I’m excited to see how these tangy treats change up your meals and snacks.
Feel free to share your stories about this recipe, ask questions, or share your pickling tips. The pickling world is full of flavors to discover – let’s journey through it together.
Keep an eye out for more simple pickling ideas and tips by joining our newsletter. Let’s keep the fun of pickling going, one tangy onion at a time!
Answers to Your Lemon Pickled Onions Queries
Embarking on a pickling adventure can bring up a ton of questions, and I’m here to help guide you through!
I’ve addressed some common inquiries to ensure your lemon pickled onions turn out perfectly:
While this recipe is tailored for red onions, you’re welcome to experiment with other types! Yellow or white onions can also be used, but keep in mind that the final taste and color may vary.
Red onions are preferred for their vibrant color and balanced flavor, which pairs wonderfully with the tang of lemon.
How long can I store these lemon pickled onions in the refrigerator?
Your lemon pickled onions will stay fresh and flavorful for up to two weeks when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
Ensure they’re fully submerged in the pickling brine to maintain their crunch and zesty flavor. Remember to use a clean fork when serving to help prolong their freshness!
Can I adjust the level of acidity or sweetness in the lemon pickled onions recipe to suit my taste?
Absolutely! Feel free to play around with the sugar and lemon juice ratios to find the perfect balance for your palate.
Adding a bit more sugar will mellow the acidity, while an extra splash of lemon juice will amp up the tanginess.
What type of vinegar works best for creating the pickling brine in this lemon pickled onion recipe?
White wine vinegar is a great choice for this recipe, as it has a light and bright flavor that complements the zesty lemon.
However, feel free to experiment with other vinegars like apple cider or white distilled vinegar to find your preferred taste profile.
