Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium Red Onions, thinly sliced
- 2 large Jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds optional)
- 1 cup Distilled White Vinegar
- 1 cup Water
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- Zest of 1 Lime
- 2 cloves Garlic, lightly smashed
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the solids and jar. Thinly slice the red onions and jalapeños. Place the sliced onions, jalapeños, lime zest, and smashed garlic cloves into a clean, heat-proof glass jar (approximately 1-pint size), packing them down slightly.
- Step 2: Create the pickling brine. In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.
- Step 3: Combine and steep. Carefully pour the hot pickling brine directly over the vegetables packed in the jar, ensuring all the solids are fully submerged. Gently tap the jar on the counter once or twice to release any trapped air bubbles.
- Step 4: Cool and refrigerate. Allow the jar to sit uncovered on the counter until the liquid reaches room temperature (about 30-45 minutes). Once cool, seal the jar tightly and transfer the pickles to the refrigerator.
- Step 5: Cure the pickles. Allow the pickled onions and jalapeños to cure in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours before serving, though the flavor will be best after 24 hours. The pickles will keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- These pickles maintain their crisp texture and zest for up to two weeks when stored continuously in the refrigerator, provided the brine covers all the solids.
- The vibrant crunch and heat cut beautifully through rich foods like brisket tacos, pulled chicken sliders, or creamy avocado toast.
- To ensure the lime zest delivers maximum aromatic punch, use a fine microplane and avoid including any bitter white pith when gathering the zest for the jar.
- Don't rush the cure; wait the full 24 hours to allow the smashed garlic and lime flavors to fully permeate the onions and truly develop the signature "zesty" profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American