Lime Pickled Onions (Quick No-Vinegar Recipe)
These quick Lime Pickled Onions are bright, tangy and ready in minutes. Made with fresh lime juice instead of vinegar, they're perfect for kebabs, shawarma, rice bowls, curries and salads.
Ingredients
- 2 Red Onions Sliced Finely
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 3 Limes
- Pinch Sugar
Instructions
Step 1 - Slice the Onions
Thinly slice the red onions and place them into a bowl.The thinner the onions, the quicker they will soften.Step 2 - Add the Lime Juice
Pour over the fresh lime juice and add the salt and optional pinch of sugar.Mix well until all the onions are coated.Step 3 - Leave to Pickle
Set aside for at least 20–30 minutes.As they sit, the onions will soften slightly and turn a vibrant pink colour.Step 4 - Serve
Serve immediately or refrigerate until needed.
Notes
Tips for the Best Lime Pickled Onions
Slice Them Thinly
Thin slices soften more quickly and absorb the lime juice better.Use Fresh Lime Juice
Freshly squeezed limes make all the difference here and provide the best flavour.Allow Time to Rest
The onions are good straight away, but even better after 30 minutes.Taste Before Serving
Depending on the acidity of your limes, you may wish to add an extra squeeze of lime or a tiny pinch of salt.Variations
Coriander Seed & Green Chilli Lime Pickled Onions
Add ½ teaspoon lightly crushed coriander seeds and 1 finely sliced green chilli for extra flavour and gentle heat.Sumac Lime Pickled Onions
Add 1 teaspoon sumac for a tangy Middle Eastern-inspired variation.Garlic Lime Pickled Onions
Add 1 small grated garlic clove for a savourier version that pairs particularly well with grilled meats.Pink Onion Salad
Toss with sliced radishes, cucumber and fresh herbs for a simple side salad.What to Serve with Lime Pickled Onions
These onions pair beautifully with:- Seekh Kebabs
- Chicken Shawarma
- Harissa Chicken
- Lamb Koftas
- Grilled Halloumi
- Rice Bowls
- Grain Bowls
- Curries
- Wraps and Flatbreads
- Falafel
Storage
Store the onions in an airtight container or jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. Because they are made with lime juice rather than vinegar, they are intended as a quick pickle rather than a long-term preserve. The flavour will continue to develop over the first day, but they are best enjoyed whilst fresh and vibrant.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Ahead?
Yes. In fact, they're even better after a few hours in the fridge.Why Have My Onions Turned Pink?
This is completely normal. The pigments in red onions react with the acidity of the lime juice, creating their signature bright pink colour.Can I Use White Onions?
You can, but red onions provide the best flavour, texture and colour.Can I Use Lemon Instead?
Yes. Lemon juice works well, although the flavour will be slightly sharper and less floral than lime.Are These Traditional Pickled Onions?
Not in the preserving sense. These are a quick pickle designed to be eaten fresh rather than stored for long periods.Nutrition
Calories: 25kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 1gFat: 0.1gSaturated Fat: 0.02gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.02gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.01gSodium: 395mgPotassium: 88mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 17IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.3mg
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