Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions: A Sweet and Spicy Delight

Name: Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions: A Sweet and Spicy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 large red onion, thinly sliced; ¾ cup apple cider vinegar; ½ cup water; 2 tablespoons hot honey (or honey + pinch red pepper flakes); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 garlic clove, smashed; ½ teaspoon whole peppercorns; 1 bay leaf; Extra red pepper flakes for more heat

by Jannet Lisa

12 de February de 2026

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Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions are sweet, tangy, and gently spicy—an easy quick-pickle recipe that adds bold flavor and vibrant color to tacos, sandwiches, grain bowls, salads, and more. These delightful onions are ready in just 30 minutes but taste even better after marinating overnight. Whether you’re looking to spice up your meals or impress your guests, this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Pickled Red

This recipe for Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions offers a perfect balance of flavors, making it an excellent addition to a variety of dishes. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of preparation, you can have these pickled onions ready to go.
Versatile: They make a great topping for tacos, sandwiches, and salads.
Flavorful: The combination of sweet honey and spicy notes elevates any meal.
Healthy: Made with natural ingredients, they fit perfectly into a vegetarian diet.
Meal Prep Friendly: These onions can be made ahead and stored for later use.
Customizable: Adjust the heat level to suit your taste by adding more red pepper flakes.

Ingredients for Hot Honey Pickled Red

Gather these items:

1 large red onion, thinly sliced
¾ cup apple cider vinegar
½ cup water
2 tablespoons hot honey (or honey + pinch red pepper flakes)
1 teaspoon salt
1 garlic clove, smashed
½ teaspoon whole peppercorns
1 bay leaf
Extra red pepper flakes for more heat

How to Make Hot Honey Pickled Red Step-by-Step

Step 1: Peel and thinly slice the red onion into rings or half-moons using a sharp knife or mandoline.
Step 2: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine vinegar, water, hot honey, and salt. Stir until salt dissolves and the mixture is warm (do not boil).
Step 3: Place sliced onions into a clean, heat-safe glass jar. Add optional garlic, peppercorns, or bay leaf if desired.
Step 4: Carefully pour the warm brine over the onions until fully submerged.
Step 5: Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, preferably 8 hours for best flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Hot Honey Pickled Red

Keep these in mind:

These onions taste better after marinating overnight.
Adjust the heat by adding more red pepper flakes for a bolder flavor.
Using fresh ingredients will enhance the overall taste of your pickles.

Best Ways to Serve Hot Honey Pickled Red

Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions:

Add them as a topping on tacos for a sweet and spicy kick.
Layer them in sandwiches or burgers for added crunch and flavor.
Mix them into grain bowls for a delightful contrast.

How to Store and Reheat Hot Honey Pickled Red

After making your pickled onions, store them in the refrigerator in a sealed jar. They can last for up to two weeks, making them perfect for meal prep. Simply take them out and add them to your dish as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hot Honey Pickled Red

What’s the secret to perfect Hot Honey Pickled Red?

The secret lies in balancing the sweet and spicy elements. Using high-quality hot honey or a combination of honey with red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile.

Can I make Hot Honey Pickled Red ahead of time?

Absolutely! These pickled onions taste even better after marinating overnight, making them an excellent choice for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Hot Honey Pickled Red?

Ensure that your onions are fully submerged in the brine to prevent spoilage. Also, adjust the heat level gradually to find your perfect balance.

Variations of Hot Honey Pickled Red You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, consider these variations:

Try adding sliced jalapeños for an extra spicy twist.
Incorporate other vegetables, like carrots or cucumbers, for a colorful mix.
Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar, for a unique flavor.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Pepperoni Ricotta Pizza for a delightful meal.

Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions: A Sweet and Spicy Delight - Hot Honey Pickled Red - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of pickled vegetables, visit Healthline.

Enjoy your Hot Honey Pickled Red Onions and explore the endless possibilities they bring to your meals!