This pickled pink onion relish is the perfect way to add a burst of vibrant, tangy flavor to salads, burgers, and more! And you only need four ingredients to make it.

A metal fork lifting pickled pink onion relish out of a glass jar on a wooden serving tray

The next time you’re looking for a simple condiment that still packs a punch, you have to try this pickled pink onion relish!

First of all, how gorgeous are these onions? It’s hard to believe that the color is completely natural! They add a gorgeous pop of color to any plate.

Second, they are ridiculously easy to make. You have to start them early enough so they have time to chill in the refrigerator, but the actual cooking process only takes about 10 minutes.

The tangy flavor is so delicious, you may find yourself adding these pickled onions to everything you make!

How to make pickled pink onion relish

This simple recipe comes together with just 4 ingredients in 5 easy steps.

Overhead view of a large metal pot, vinegar in a white ramekin, salt in a black ramekin, and red onion cut into slices on a white cutting board; all seen from above on a white marble surface

Step 1: Bring water and salt to a boil in a large pot over high heat.

Step 2: Add the onions, wait until the water returns to a boil, then boil for about 1 minute.

Sliced onions boiled in a metal pot full of water

Step 3: Drain and transfer the onions to a glass jar.

Boiled red onion slices in a glass jar on a white marble surface

Step 4: Add the vinegar, then stir to mix well. Let the onions cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.

A hand pouring vinegar mixture out of a white ramekin over the pickles in a glass jar on a white marble background

Step 5: Once fully cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

That’s it! After a few hours, your pickled onions will be ready to enjoy.

Overhead view of relish in a glass jar on a white marble surface

What to eat with this dish

I think the better question is what CAN’T you eat with this onion relish!

One of my favorite ways to enjoy them is on a salad. They add a great pop of flavor and color. You could even use some of the vinegar in the jar to dress your greens.

They’re also a great topping for a burger. Throw them on top of your favorite beef, bison, or turkey burger, or you could even add them to my bahn mi chicken burger!

Pickled onions are great with any hearty meat dishes. You’ll often see them served alongside smoked brisket or ribs. I’ve personally enjoyed them with meatloaf.

Truly, I think these onions will be a great addition to almost any dish.

Overhead view of relish in a glass jar on a wooden serving tray next to a metal fork and half of a red onion

Storage

This relish can be stored covered in the refrigerator and will stay fresh for several weeks.

I love having a jar in my fridge so I can throw a few slices on my plate whenever I like!

Closeup of relish in a glass jar on a wooden serving tray

Other homemade condiment recipes

The best part about making condiments yourself is that you can control the ingredients. No unnecessary sugar, sodium, or fillers! Here are a few of my favorite recipes to make right at home:

Pickled Pink Onion Relish

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This pickled pink onion relish is the perfect way to add a burst of vibrant, tangy flavor to salads, burgers, and more! And you only need four ingredients to make it.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients 

  • 6 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 red onion, (cut in half from stem to root, then cut crosswise and thinly sliced)
  • ½ cup rice vinegar

Instructions

  • Bring water and salt to a boil in a large pot over high heat.
    6 cups water, 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Add the onions, wait until the water returns to a boil, then boil for about 1 minute.
    1 red onion
  • Drain and transfer the onions to a glass jar.
  • Add the vinegar, then stir to mix well. Let the onions cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.
    ½ cup rice vinegar
  • Once fully cooled, cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to develop.

Notes

This recipe is for 16 servings of onion relish.
To reduce the sodium, substitute a lower-sodium vinegar.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several weeks.

Nutrition Info Per Serving

Nutrition Facts
Pickled Pink Onion Relish
Amount per Serving
Calories
28
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0
g
0
%
Saturated Fat
 
0
g
0
%
Trans Fat
 
0
g
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0
g
Cholesterol
 
0
mg
0
%
Sodium
 
235.2
mg
10
%
Potassium
 
36.8
mg
1
%
Carbohydrates
 
7.1
g
2
%
Fiber
 
0.1
g
0
%
Sugar
 
6.6
g
7
%
Protein
 
0.1
g
0
%
Net carbs
 
7
g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.