Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful addition to your meals, look no further than this Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe. These quick pickled onions are a game changer! They bring a bright, tangy crunch that elevates everything from burgers to salads. I love how easy they are to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, the vibrant color and flavor make them a delightful addition to any table.
What makes this recipe special is not just its taste but also how versatile it is. You can enjoy these pickled beauties on tacos, sandwiches, or even just as a snack on their own. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them all the time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Simple: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these delicious pickled onions ready in no time.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the zesty flavor that adds excitement to any dish.
- Make-Ahead Magic: These onions get better with time! Prepare them in advance for easy meal prep during busy weeks.
- Endless Versatility: Use them as a topping for various dishes or enjoy them straight from the jar—there’s no wrong way to savor these pickled delights.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe. You likely have most of these in your pantry already!
For the Pickling Brine
- 2 small red onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cups white vinegar
- 2 cups water
- ⅓ cup cane sugar
- 2 tablespoons sea salt
Optional Add-Ins
- (Optional) 2 garlic cloves, for an extra layer of flavor
- (Optional) 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns, adding a lovely spice note
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up and make it your own.
- Add Some Heat: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or thyme for a unique twist on flavor.
- Sweeten the Deal: Try using honey instead of cane sugar for a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tanginess.
- Different Vinegars: Swap white vinegar for apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar to create different flavor profiles.
How to Make Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Step 1: Slice the Onions
Begin by thinly slicing the red onions. The thinner you slice them, the quicker they will pickle! Dividing them between 2–3 sterilized jars ensures they will be stored safely and ready for use later.
Step 2: Prepare the Brine
In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt. Heat this mixture over medium heat while stirring until everything dissolves completely. This step creates a flavorful brine that infuses into the onions.
Step 3: Cool the Brine
Once dissolved, let your brine cool slightly until it’s warm but not hot. Pouring hot brine directly over your onions could cook them slightly, which we want to avoid!
Step 4: Combine Onions and Brine
Now pour the warm brine over your sliced onions in the jars. Make sure they are fully submerged; this ensures even pickling throughout.
Step 5: Cool Down
Leave the jars uncovered at room temperature until they cool down completely. This helps prevent condensation inside the jars when sealed.
Step 6: Seal and Refrigerate
Once cooled, seal your jars tightly and pop them into the refrigerator. They’ll be ready after just one hour but taste even better if left overnight!
Enjoy these vibrant little gems as an easy way to add extra flavor to all your favorite meals!
Pro Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Making pickled onions is a delightful venture, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your results even further!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh red onions will provide the best flavor and crunch. Avoid any that are soft or sprouting to ensure your pickles stay crisp.
- Adjust sweetness to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of cane sugar in the brine. If you prefer a tangier bite, reduce the sugar slightly; if you like it sweeter, add a touch more.
- Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices in the brine! A pinch of chili flakes or some mustard seeds can give your pickled onions a unique twist.
- Let them rest: While they’re ready after just an hour, letting the onions sit overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer they sit, the better they taste!
- Sterilize jars properly: To keep your pickled onions fresh and safe to eat, ensure your jars are thoroughly sterilized. This prevents any unwanted bacteria from spoiling your delicious creation.
How to Serve Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
These pickled onions are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile! They can enhance a variety of dishes, adding that perfect zing.
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkling some chopped parsley or cilantro on top adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Chili flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of chili flakes on top can make each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
- Grilled Veggies: Charred vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the acidity of pickled onions perfectly while adding smokiness.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad made with cucumber, tomatoes, and mint pairs well with these onions, balancing out their sharpness with wholesome grains.
- Tacos: Whether filled with beans or grilled vegetables, tacos topped with these vibrant pickled onions bring an explosion of flavor that elevates every bite.
With these serving suggestions and tips up your sleeve, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions! Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage
These Gordon Ramsay pickled onions are not just a delightful addition to your meals, but they also shine in meal prep. You can whip up a batch ahead of time and store them for easy access throughout the week, adding zest to any dish in no time!
Storing Leftovers
- Store the pickled onions in an airtight jar in the refrigerator.
- They will keep well for up to 2 weeks, maintaining their crunch and flavor.
- Always use a clean utensil to scoop out the onions to prevent contamination.
Freezing
- Although pickled onions are best fresh, you can freeze them for longer storage.
- Place the onions in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring all air is removed.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, expect some texture change upon thawing.
Reheating
- There’s no need to reheat pickled onions; they are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
- If you prefer them warm, simply let them sit out for a while before serving.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about the Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe that might help clarify any doubts.
How long does it take for Gordon Ramsay pickled onions to be ready?
The pickled onions are ready to enjoy after just 1 hour! However, for the best flavor experience, let them rest overnight in the fridge.
Can I use different types of vinegar in the Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe?
Absolutely! While white vinegar is traditional, you can experiment with apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for a different taste profile. Just ensure they’re on the milder side.
What dishes can I serve with Gordon Ramsay pickled onions?
These deliciously tangy onions complement burgers, tacos, salads, and sandwiches perfectly. Get creative and add them to your favorite recipes!
Are there any substitutes if I don’t have cane sugar?
You can substitute cane sugar with honey or agave nectar. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile of your pickles.
Can I make this recipe without garlic or peppercorns?
Yes! The recipe stands beautifully on its own without garlic or peppercorns. Feel free to adjust based on your preference!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited about making these Gordon Ramsay pickled onions as I am! Their bright flavor will surely elevate your meals and impress your friends and family. Enjoy crafting this simple yet delicious recipe that brings such joy every time you pop open a jar. Happy cooking!
Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe
Elevate your meals with this vibrant Gordon Ramsay Pickled Onions Recipe. These quick pickled onions are not only easy to make but also add a bright, tangy crunch to a variety of dishes—from burgers and tacos to salads and beyond. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create an irresistible condiment that enhances flavors and adds a pop of color to your dining table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Pickling
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 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, sliced
- Optional: 1 teaspoon mixed peppercorns
Instructions
- Thinly slice the red onions and divide them between 2–3 sterilized jars.
- In a saucepan, combine white vinegar, water, cane sugar, and sea salt. Heat over medium until dissolved.
- Allow the brine to cool slightly before pouring it over the onions in the jars, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Leave jars uncovered until cooled completely before sealing and refrigerating.
- Enjoy after one hour for quick bites or let sit overnight for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ cup (60g)
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 440mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
