Gluten Free Orange-Garlic Quick-Pickled Red Onions
Quick-pickled red onions are one of those condiments that quietly transform everything they touch — tacos, grain bowls, grilled chicken, a simple avocado toast — and this version brings a bright citrus twist that makes it genuinely hard to stop snacking straight from the jar. The brine is built on apple cider vinegar and fresh orange juice, with honey for a gentle sweetness and smashed garlic, sliced ginger, and a strip of orange zest layered in for depth. A pinch of turmeric gives the whole thing a gorgeous golden blush alongside that signature deep pink from the onions. Every single ingredient here is naturally free of gluten, so there's no label-scanning or substitution stress — just a clean, vibrant condiment you can feel good about. The process is straightforward: warm the brine, pour it over the packed onions, and let time do the work while the kitchen fills with the most incredible tangy-citrus aroma. After about 45 minutes at room temperature, the onions are silky, jewel-toned, and ready to brighten up whatever you're cooking. Keep a jar in the fridge and you'll find yourself reaching for it constantly.
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!