Coconut Free Orange-Garlic Quick-Pickled Red Onions
Quick-pickled red onions are one of those fridge staples that quietly elevate everything they touch — tacos, grain bowls, sandwiches, roasted vegetables, you name it. This version gets a serious flavor upgrade from fresh orange juice and a strip of orange zest, which bring a bright citrusy sweetness that balances the sharp tang of apple cider vinegar beautifully. Smashed garlic and sliced fresh ginger steep right in the warm brine, adding layers of savory, aromatic depth without any complicated technique. A touch of honey rounds everything out, and the optional turmeric gives the finished onions a gorgeous golden-pink hue that looks almost too pretty to eat. The whole process is straightforward — you heat the brine, pour it over the onions, and let time do the work. No boiling, no canning equipment, no fuss. Since every ingredient here is whole and naturally derived, there's zero need to scan labels for hidden additives or worry about unexpected extras sneaking into your condiment jar.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
8 servings
- 1 medium red onion, very thinly sliced into half-moons
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup fresh orange juice (from about 1 medium orange)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly smashed
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 strip orange zest (about 2 inches long), pith removed
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Pack the sliced red onions into a clean 16 oz glass jar, pressing them down gently so they fit snugly.
- 2
Combine the apple cider vinegar, orange juice, water, honey, and salt in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the honey and salt are fully dissolved, about 2–3 minutes. Do not boil.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!