Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
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. The Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe is perfect for elevating your dishes with a tangy crunch. They’re suitable for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious condiment that enhances your meals effortlessly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: The recipe requires minimal cooking skills and only takes 15 minutes to prepare.
- Versatile Use: Great on burgers, sandwiches, salads, and more — add them wherever you like!
- Flavor Boost: The combination of vinegar and sugar creates a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Quick Pickling: Ready to eat in just an hour but tastes even better after sitting overnight.
- Healthier Option: A low-calorie condiment that adds flavor without unnecessary additives.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes the pickling process smooth and efficient. Here are the essential tools you will need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Sterilized jars
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Stirring spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Sterilized jars: Ensure your pickled onions stay fresh longer by preventing bacterial growth.
- Saucepan: A good-quality saucepan ensures even heating of the brine for optimal flavor extraction.

Ingredients
To make this fantastic Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
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: Prepare the Onions
- Thinly slice the red onions.
- Divide the slices between 2–3 sterilized jars.
Step 2: Make the Brine
- In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt.
- Heat over medium heat while stirring until everything is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Combine Onions and Brine
- Let the brine cool slightly until it is warm but not hot.
- Pour the warm brine over the onions in the jars, ensuring they are fully submerged.
Step 4: Cool and Store
- Allow the jars to cool at room temperature without lids.
- Once cooled, seal the jars and refrigerate them.
Step 5: Enjoy!
- Your pickled onions will be ready to eat after just one hour but are best enjoyed after resting overnight for full flavor development!
How to Serve Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
These quick pickled onions are not only delicious but also versatile. They can elevate a variety of dishes with their tangy flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meals.
On Tacos
- Add a handful of pickled onions to tacos for an extra zing that complements meats and veggies beautifully.
In Salads
- Toss a few slices into your salads for a refreshing crunch that brightens up the overall taste.
With Burgers
- Layer them on top of burgers to provide a sharp contrast to the richness of the meat and cheese.
As a Snack
- Enjoy them straight from the jar for a quick, tangy snack that satisfies cravings.
On Sandwiches
- Use as a topping on sandwiches or wraps to add flavor and texture without overpowering other ingredients.
With Grilled Meats
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or steak for a delightful contrast in flavors that enhances the meal.
How to Perfect Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
To ensure your pickled onions are perfect every time, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve the best results and maximize flavor.
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Choose fresh onions: Fresh red onions will have better flavor and texture, making your pickled onions more vibrant and tasty.
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Adjust sweetness: Feel free to tweak the sugar amount based on your taste preferences; more sugar creates a sweeter profile.
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Experiment with spices: Adding spices like cumin or coriander seeds can introduce new flavors that enhance your pickling experience.
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Let them rest: While they’re ready after an hour, allowing them to sit overnight will deepen their flavor significantly.
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Use sterilized jars: Properly sterilizing jars prevents spoilage and ensures your pickled onions remain safe to eat longer.
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Store properly: Keep sealed jars in the fridge; they can last for up to two weeks if stored correctly.
Best Side Dishes for Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Gordon Ramsay pickled onions can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement their tangy flavor.
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Crispy Potato Wedges: These golden-brown wedges offer a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with pickled onions.
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Grilled Vegetables: Assorted grilled veggies add depth and smokiness while balancing out the acidity of the onions.
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Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs provides freshness and makes for a healthy side option.
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Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw can soften the sharpness of pickled onions while adding crunch and creaminess.
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Roasted Cauliflower: The nutty flavor of roasted cauliflower pairs well, creating an earthy balance against the tanginess.
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Hummus & Pita Chips: Dip pita chips in hummus topped with pickled onions for a delightful appetizer or side dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pickled onions is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Overcooking the brine: Heating the vinegar too much can lead to a harsh taste. Bring it to a gentle simmer instead.
- Not using enough salt: Salt is crucial for flavor and preservation. Ensure you measure properly for the best results.
- Ignoring sterilization: Using unsterilized jars can introduce bacteria. Always sterilize your jars before filling them with pickles.
- Skipping resting time: Eating them right away is tempting, but they taste better after resting overnight. Patience enhances the flavors!
- Using old onions: Freshness matters! Old or soft onions won’t provide the crisp texture you want in your pickled onions.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in sterilized glass jars with airtight lids.
- These pickled onions will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
Freezing Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
- Freezing is not recommended as it may affect texture.
- If necessary, freeze small amounts in freezer-safe bags; use within a month for best quality.
Reheating Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
- Oven: Not applicable; these are served cold.
- Microwave: Avoid heating as it alters texture and flavor.
- Stovetop: Best enjoyed cold; do not reheat.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe, here are some common questions answered.
What is the best type of onion for pickling?
Red onions work best due to their sweetness and vibrant color, but you can also use white or yellow onions.
How long do I need to wait before eating pickled onions?
You can enjoy them after 1 hour, but for improved flavor, let them rest overnight in the fridge.
Can I customize my Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cumin or dill for extra flavor. Experiment with different vinegars too!
How do I know if my pickled onions have gone bad?
If you notice any off smells, mold, or an unusual texture, it’s best to discard them.
Final Thoughts
This Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that elevate various dishes. They are incredibly versatile—perfect as toppings on tacos or salads or even enjoyed on their own! Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite spices or herbs to make it truly yours.
Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Brighten up your meals with this easy Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor—try it now!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Pickling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 small red onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- ⅓ cup cane sugar
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
- 2 garlic cloves (optional)
- 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns (optional)
Instructions
- Thinly slice the red onions and divide them into 2–3 sterilized jars.
- In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt. Heat over medium heat until dissolved.
- Allow the brine to cool slightly before pouring it over the onions in the jars.
- Let the jars cool at room temperature without lids, then seal and refrigerate.
- Enjoy your pickled onions after one hour for immediate flavor or let them rest overnight for enhanced taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 10
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
