Add a burst of flavor to your next gathering with a homemade Onion Pickle Tray, a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's easy to make and impressively delicious. This tangy, sweet, and savory dish is the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes, from charcuterie boards to burgers and sandwiches.
Also known as pickled red onions, this recipe transforms humble onions into a vibrant, zesty topping that adds a unique twist to your favorite meals. The best part? It's ready in just a few hours, making it an ideal last-minute addition to your menu. Let's dive into the recipe and explore some creative ways to use your homemade onion pickle tray.
Ingredients and Preparation
The key to a great onion pickle tray lies in its simplicity. You'll need just a handful of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry.
Here's what you'll need:
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparing the Onions
Start by thinly slicing the red onion. The thinner the slices, the faster they'll pickle and the more surface area they'll have to absorb the flavorful brine.
To make the process easier, you can use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife. If you prefer, you can also quarter the onion and thinly slice it that way.
Making the Brine
In a small saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, water, kosher salt, black peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar and salt have dissolved.
Once dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the brine cool to room temperature. This step is crucial to prevent the onions from cooking and losing their crunch.
Pickling the Onions
Now that your onions are sliced and your brine is cooled, it's time to pickle them.
In a large glass jar or bowl, combine the sliced onions and the cooled brine. Make sure the onions are completely submerged in the liquid. If they're not, you may need to use a smaller jar or add more brine.
Waiting for the Magic to Happen
Cover the jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight. The longer the onions pickle, the more intense their flavor will become.
After 2 hours, give the onions a stir and taste one. If you're happy with the flavor, they're ready to serve. If you'd like them to pickle a bit more, let them sit for another hour or two.
Storing and Serving Your Onion Pickle Tray
Once your onions have reached your desired level of pickliness, they're ready to serve. Drain them, reserving the brine for another use if desired, and transfer them to a serving dish.
Serve your onion pickle tray as a side dish, on top of burgers, tacos, or sandwiches, or as part of a charcuterie board. They'll keep in the refrigerator for up to a week, making them an excellent make-ahead dish.
Creative Ways to Use Your Onion Pickle Tray
Now that you've mastered the art of pickling onions, it's time to explore some creative ways to use your homemade onion pickle tray.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
Toppings and Garnishes
Use your pickled onions as a topping for tacos, burgers, sandwiches, and salads. They add a tangy, sweet crunch that balances out rich, savory flavors.
Try them on top of grilled chicken or fish, or mix them into a grain bowl for an extra pop of flavor.
Cocktail Garnish
Pickled onions aren't just for eating – they also make a fantastic garnish for cocktails. Muddle a few in a shaker for a spicy margarita, or skewer them and use them as a stirrer for a bloody Mary.
For a non-alcoholic option, try them in a virgin mojito or a sparkling water spritzer.
Side Dish or Appetizer
Serve your pickled onions as a side dish or appetizer with a variety of dishes. They pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even pasta.
For a quick and easy appetizer, serve them with crackers or crostini and a selection of cheeses.
Now that you've learned how to make a delicious onion pickle tray and explored some creative ways to use it, it's time to get pickling. Happy cooking!