Sugar Free Pickled Red Onions
Make these no-sugar quick pickled onions in 5 minutes—no cooking required! Perfect for bowls, tacos, and more. Zesty, crisp, and zero added sugar.
Where are my topping people at? Like, ya’ll already know I’m a sauce girl. I love a good side or drizzle of sauce on my meal. But something else I love? A good topping. Whether it’s the crunch of a sesame seed or peanut, the herbaceousness of fresh cilantro and green onions or the extra sprinkle of flaky salt on a chocolate chip cookie, I gotta have it. Enter pickled onions! They’re zippy, a little tart, a little salty, and in the case of this recipe, have just a little kick. They’re perfect to throw on anything from a salad to a curry (pictured above)! So when I went on my Daniel Fast this year and realized I couldn’t have these things because of the sugar, I had to pivot and make a sugar-free recipe, and guess what?! They’re just as good. I actually prefer them because they don’t throw off the sweet balance of my meal. Come along with me as I share tips and tricks for making them, and watch the video for a visual guide!
What Are Pickled Onions and How Do You Pickle?
Let’s start with how to pickle. Pickling is a food preservation method where a food is submerged in an acidic liquid to extend its shelf life. Most of the time, this is done with vinegar, but it can also be done with other acidic liquids. The acidic liquid, or brine, inhibits the growth of spoilage-causing bacteria and microorganisms. Many foods can be pickled, including meat and fish, although you typically see fruits and vegetables like onions, cucumbers, and cabbage.
Pickled onions, then, are onions that have been submerged in a vinegar-based brine to add flavor and preserve them for longer. The amount of time they’ve been submerged will determine the flavor and firmness of the onion.
Do You Need To Boil Vinegar to Pickle Onions?
No! You can add the ingredients for your brine into a jar with your onions and other ingredients, and submerge to pickle. This is referred to as a quick pickle and works fine for a jar you plan on keeping in the fridge for a few weeks.
TIPS FOR PICKLED ONIONS
1. Slice onions thinly for quick absorption
About 1/8″ is the sweet spot—too thick and they won’t absorb flavor fast enough. Too thin and they won’t retain their texture.
2. Use a seasoned vinegar for natural balance
Rice vinegar or champagne vinegar gives tang without the harsh bite of white vinegar.
3. Optional aromatics = big flavor
Add garlic, chili flakes, or even a bay leaf to make it your own.
4. Press the onions down
Use a spoon to push them below the liquid so they pickle evenly.
5. Let them chill
Give them at least an hour—but overnight is best for peak flavor.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long do sugar-free pickled onions last?
Answer: Up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container.
Can I use white vinegar instead of rice vinegar?
Answer: Yes, but rice vinegar gives a softer, more balanced flavor. If using white vinegar, consider adding a touch more lemon juice for brightness.
Are pickled onions keto or low-carb?
Answer: These are! There’s no added sugar and minimal carbs from the onions themselves.
Can I reuse the pickling liquid?
Answer: You can reuse it once for another batch within the same week, but the flavor will be more subtle.
What dishes pair best with pickled onions?
Answer: Tacos, grain bowls, sandwiches, avocado toast, burgers, grilled veggies—basically anything that needs a pop of brightness.
Love This Recipe?
Be sure to check out more of my recipes for low carb, summer or comfort dishes that will keep your meals interesting! If you make it, show it off! Tag @LizeeAngel and use #ByNikManning so I can repost your plate. For more videos and fun content, join me over on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Pickled Red Onions
Ingredients
- 1-2 red onions
- 3 4 c water
- 3/4 c rice vinegar or vinegar of choice
- 1 tbsp salt
- Juice 1/2 lemon
- Red pepper flakes and sliced garlic optional
Instructions
- Slice onions to about 1/8″ thickness and add to your jar
- Combine remaining ingredients measuring cup and stir until salt is dissolved. Pour over onions.
- Add sliced garlic, herbs and red pepper flakes if using and stir/press onions to submerge.
- Store in fridge with a lidded container for at least an hour, up to 3 weeks.
- Flavor will intensify as it sits. Enjoy!
