If you're looking to add a tangy, zesty kick to your meals, these Zesty Citrus Pickled Red Onions are just what you need. With a refreshing blend of lime and orange juice, these onions are not your average pickles. Perfect for brightening up your dishes any time of year!
Red onions are the star here, offering a beautiful color and a mild bite. The white vinegar acts as the main pickling agent, preserving the onions and adding tang. Fresh lime juice and fresh orange juice bring a unique citrusy brightness that elevates the flavor profile. The sugar balances the acidity, while kosher salt enhances all the flavors. For a subtle warmth, we add black peppercorns and coriander seeds. A bay leaf infuses a slight herbal note, and red pepper flakes add just a hint of heat.
These pickled onions are perfect for topping off tacos, burgers, or pulled pork sandwiches. They also make a delightful addition to a cheese board or as a garnish for rich, creamy soups. For a fresh and tangy twist, toss them into a salad or grain bowl.
Start by grabbing a small saucepan and combining the white vinegar, lime juice, orange juice, sugar, kosher salt, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes. Bring this mix to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved. This step ensures that all those wonderful flavors meld together.
Next, place your thinly sliced red onions in a heatproof jar or bowl. Carefully pour the hot vinegar mixture over the onions, making sure they're entirely covered. If you find the onions bobbing up, press them down gently with the back of a spoon.
Let the onions cool to room temperature; this is when the magic happens as they soak up all those delicious flavors. Once cooled, cover the jar or bowl and pop it into the refrigerator. Give them at least an hour to chill and marinate, but if you can resist, leaving them overnight will make them even better.
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