How to Make Easy Cava Style Pickled Red Onions at Home

Looking for an easy way to elevate your Cava-style bowls, tacos, or salads? You’re in luck. Today, we’re making quick Cava Style Pickled Red Onions that are a game changer!

Why Pickled Onions?

The tangy crunch of pickled onions is one of my favorite things to add to any meal. Best part? This recipe uses simple ingredients, most of which you probably have.

What You’ll Need:

• 1-pint mason jar
• Medium saucepan
• Funnel (optional)
• Spoon

Ingredients for Cava Style Pickled Red Onions:

Vinegar of choice. I love the combo of apple cider vinegar and red wine vinegar for the best flavor.

Sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the vinegar

Salt and Peppercorns

Steps to Deliciousness

1. Prep Onions: Thinly sliced onion is key here.
2. Pickling Liquid: Bring apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar, and tbsp sugar to medium-high heat. Stir until the salt dissolves.
3. Combine: Fill that mason jar! Pour the hot liquid over the onions.
4. Seal: Tight fitting lid required!
5. Wait: 30 minutes at room temperature and you’re golden.

Add-Ins

Want to take it to the next level? Consider red pepper flakes, maple syrup, or fresh herbs.

If you’d like to experiment and add more layers of flavor to your pickled red onions, here are some fantastic add-ins you can include:

• 1 Clove Garlic: Crushed, for a garlicky kick.
• Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes: For some heat.
• 1 Teaspoon Peppercorns: A classic pickling spice.
• 1 Teaspoon Cumin Seeds: Adds an earthy touch.
• 1 Teaspoon Fennel Seed: For a bit of anise flavor.
• 1 Teaspoon Coriander Seeds: For a citrusy zing.
• 1/8 Teaspoon Ground Allspice or ½ Teaspoon Allspice Berries: A warm spice note.
• 2 Bay Leaves: Adds complexity and depth.

Simply add your chosen extras to the pickling liquid as you heat it, and continue with the rest of the recipe as normal. Enjoy!

Alternate Vinegar Options

If you want to mix things up or simply don’t have apple cider or red wine vinegar on hand, here are some alternate vinegar options that will still deliver great results:

• White Vinegar: Provides a clear, straightforward tang.
• Rice Vinegar: Milder and slightly sweeter, great for an Asian twist.
• White Wine Vinegar: Offers a lighter, fruitier profile.
• Champagne or Prosecco Vinegar: Delivers a light and elegant acidity.

Remember, different vinegars bring unique flavors to the pickling process, so feel free to experiment!

Perfect for Copycat Cava Bowls

The vibrant pink color and tangy crunch make these onions the perfect addition to your Cava-inspired Mediterranean bowl. Put them on a Homemade Greek Chicken Bowl or pair them with Harissa Honey Chicken for a delicious meal!

Ways to Use Pickled Red Onions

Unsure how to incorporate your vibrant pink pickled red onions into meals? Here are some fantastic ways to add that tangy crunch and much flavor:

1. Cava-Style Bowls: Top your copycat Cava bowls with pickled red onions for an authentic experience.
2. Tacos: A perfect addition to any taco, especially with harissa honey chicken or ground beef.
3. Salads: Elevate a Mediterranean bowl or simple green salad with a sprinkle of pickled red onions.
4. Avocado Toast: Add a bright flavor to your morning toast for an extra kick.
5. Sandwiches: Swap out regular red onions for pickled ones in sandwiches for an unexpected twist.
6. Grilled Meats: Pair with grilled steaks, chicken, or pork for a balanced flavor profile.
7. Burgers: Use as a tangy, crunchy topping to complement the juicy meat.
8. Fish Dishes: Excellent with grilled or baked fish, providing a tangy contrast.

Feel free to get creative; the options are almost endless!

How to Store Cava Style Pickled Red Onions

Storing these pickled red onions is a breeze, and the best part is they last a long time!

1. Seal Tight: Make sure your pickled red onions are in a mason jar with a tight-fitting lid.
2. Refrigerate: Place the sealed jar in the fridge.

Shelf Life of Cava Style Pickled Red Onions

• Immediate Enjoyment: The onions are ready to enjoy 30 minutes after pickling, achieving their best flavor.
• Long-Term Storage: These quick pickles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

So the next time you find yourself with an extra red onion, remember this easy recipe!

Enjoy!

Next time you’re at the grocery stores, grab a very large red onion and get pickling. Trust me, this quick pickled red onions recipe is a keeper. It’s a bright flavor bomb that becomes one of your favorite condiments in no time.

Love the recipe? Leave a star rating and share on social media. We appreciate it!