Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Bright, sharp, and ridiculously easy to make — these Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe bring a burst of flavor to burgers, salads, tacos, and anything else that needs a little extra punch. Perfect for gatherings or everyday meals, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their dishes with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of total time, you can have delicious pickled onions ready to enjoy.
- Versatile Flavor Enhancer: These pickled onions add a tangy crunch to a wide variety of dishes, from sandwiches to salads.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with commonly found ingredients, this recipe is accessible and easy to prepare.
- Customizable: Feel free to add garlic or peppercorns for an extra kick based on your preference.
- Long-lasting: Once prepared, these pickled onions can be stored in the fridge for weeks, making them perfect for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Glass jars (sterilized)
- Saucepan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Glass jars: Essential for storing your pickled onions while keeping them fresh and flavorful.
- Saucepan: Needed for heating the brine mixture evenly without burning it.
- Cutting board & knife: Crucial for safely slicing the onions into thin pieces for optimal pickling.

Ingredients
Bright, sharp, and ridiculously easy to make — these quick pickled onions bring a burst of flavor to burgers, salads, tacos, and anything else that needs a little extra punch.
For the Pickled Onions
- 2 small red onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- ⅓ cup cane sugar
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- (Optional) 2 garlic cloves
- (Optional) 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns
How to Make Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Onions
- Thinly slice the red onions using a sharp knife on a cutting board.
- Divide the sliced onions between 2–3 sterilized glass jars.
Step 2: Prepare the Brine
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine white vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt.
- Stir continuously until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
Step 3: Cool the Brine
- Remove the saucepan from heat once the brine is dissolved.
- Allow it to cool slightly until it is warm but not hot.
Step 4: Combine Onions and Brine
- Pour the warm brine over the sliced onions in the jars.
- Ensure that all onion slices are fully submerged in the brine.
Step 5: Let Them Cool
- Leave the jars uncovered at room temperature until they cool down completely.
Step 6: Seal and Refrigerate
- Once cooled, seal the jars tightly with their lids.
- Place them in the refrigerator for storage.
Step 7: Enjoy!
- Your pickled onions will be ready to eat after just one hour but taste even better after resting overnight!
How to Serve Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
These vibrant pickled onions are incredibly versatile and can elevate various dishes. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a meal at home, these onions add a delightful crunch and tang.
On Burgers
- Add a few slices of pickled onions on top of your favorite burger for an extra zing and texture.
In Tacos
- Layer them into your tacos alongside fresh cilantro and avocado for a refreshing contrast to the savory fillings.
As A Salad Topper
- Sprinkle pickled onions over mixed greens or grain salads to enhance their flavor and add color.
With Charcuterie Boards
- Serve pickled onions alongside cheeses, crackers, and meats for a sharp bite that complements rich flavors.
In Sandwiches
- Include them in sandwiches or wraps to give each bite a burst of acidity that cuts through creamy ingredients.
With Grilled Meats
- Pair pickled onions with grilled chicken or turkey for a bright flavor that balances hearty dishes.
How to Perfect Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
To achieve the best results with your pickled onions, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and presentation.
- Use fresh onions: Fresh red onions will have the best flavor and crunch in your pickles. Look for firm bulbs without blemishes.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer sweeter pickles, increase the cane sugar slightly. Taste the brine before pouring it over the onions to find your perfect balance.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like mustard seeds or chili flakes to customize the taste of your pickles.
- Store properly: Ensure jars are airtight when refrigerated. This helps preserve their crispness and flavor for weeks.
- Give it time: While you can enjoy them after an hour, letting them sit overnight allows flavors to meld beautifully for an even better taste.
Best Side Dishes for Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Gordon Ramsay’s pickled onions can create delightful meal combinations. Here are some great options:
- Grilled Chicken Breast – Juicy grilled chicken pairs well with the tangy punch of pickled onions, enhancing its flavors.
- Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with vegetables complements the acidity of the pickles perfectly.
- Roasted Vegetables – Sweet roasted veggies provide a contrast to the tartness of pickled onions, creating a balanced plate.
- Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs serves as a great base for adding tangy bites from the onions.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are delicious when dipped into sauces alongside the bright notes from the pickles.
- Hummus Platter – Enjoy creamy hummus served with pita bread and fresh veggies paired with zesty pickled onions for added flair.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers are complemented by the sharpness of the onions, making every bite exciting.
- Tabbouleh – This herby bulgur salad benefits from the addition of bright pickled onions, enhancing its freshness and flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pickled onions is easy, but a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using Old Onions: Freshness matters! Always choose firm and vibrant onions for the best taste.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements ensure a balanced brine. Use measuring cups for vinegar, water, and sugar.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Pouring hot brine over onions can make them mushy. Allow the brine to cool slightly before pouring.
- Not Refrigerating After Cooling: For safety and longevity, always refrigerate your pickled onions after they cool to room temperature.
- Rushing the Flavor Development: While you can eat them after an hour, letting them sit overnight enhances their flavor. Patience pays off!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers or sterilized jars.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks for optimal flavor.
Freezing Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
- Freezing is not recommended as it may alter texture.
- If you must freeze, use freezer-safe bags and consume within 1 month.
Reheating Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
- Oven: Not necessary for pickled onions, but if used, warm at low heat without direct exposure to flames.
- Microwave: Quick warming option; use a microwave-safe container and heat in short bursts to avoid cooking them.
- Stovetop: Briefly heat in a saucepan on low; avoid boiling to maintain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe that might help you get the most out of this dish.
How long do Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions last?
They last up to two weeks in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Can I customize my Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like dill or mustard seeds for different flavors.
Are these pickled onions spicy?
The recipe itself is not spicy. However, adding ingredients like jalapeños can give them a kick.
What dishes pair well with Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions?
These pickled onions complement burgers, tacos, salads, and even sandwiches perfectly.
Final Thoughts
The Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe is not only simple but also versatile. They add a delightful zing to various dishes. Feel free to customize the flavors by adding your favorite spices or herbs. Give this recipe a try — it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions
Brighten your meals with the Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe, an easy and vibrant addition to any dish. These quick pickled onions are sharp, tangy, and incredibly versatile, making them a perfect topping for burgers, tacos, salads, or sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Pickling
- Cuisine: International
Ingredients
- 2 small red onions
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- ⅓ cup cane sugar
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- Optional: 2 garlic cloves
- Optional: 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns
Instructions
- Thinly slice the red onions and place them in sterilized glass jars.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine white vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt. Stir until dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Pour the warm brine over the sliced onions until fully submerged.
- Allow jars to cool at room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.
- Enjoy after one hour or let sit overnight for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 35
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg