Easy marinated red onions recipe – quick to prepare with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano. Perfect for salads, tacos, sandwiches, burgers, or meal prep. This no-cook condiment adds tangy flavor and crunch to any dish. Ready in 15 minutes and ideal for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.
Quick, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, these marinated red onions are the perfect addition to salads, sandwiches, grilled meats, or mezze platters. With just a handful of pantry ingredients, you’ll have a bright, tangy condiment ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Marinate the onions:
Place the thinly sliced red onion in a small bowl. Sprinkle with salt and pour over the red wine vinegar. Stir to coat evenly and let sit for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice during this time to ensure even marination. - Add oil and herbs:
After 15 minutes, add the olive oil and dried oregano. Stir well to combine. - Serve or store:
Serve immediately, or transfer to a clean, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator if making ahead (see FAQs for storage details).
Tips
- Slice evenly: Use a mandoline or sharp knife to get uniformly thin slices that absorb the marinade faster.
- Massage the onions: Rubbing them gently with the vinegar and salt helps soften their texture and reduces sharpness.
- Let them rest: While they can be served right away, their flavor deepens if left to marinate longer.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vinegar options: Swap red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar, or even lemon juice.
- Add-ins: Add a pinch of chili flakes, a smashed garlic clove, or fresh herbs like thyme for extra flavor.
- Oil alternatives: Use avocado oil or another mild-tasting oil if olive oil isn’t available.
FAQs
How long do marinated onions last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they’ll keep for up to 5 days. Always use a clean spoon to serve.
Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, but red onions offer the best flavor and color. Sweet onions or shallots can be good alternatives.
Do I need to cook the onions first?
No cooking required—this is a raw preparation where the vinegar softens and flavors the onions.
Serving Suggestions
- Toss into salads for extra tang and crunch.
- Layer in burgers, wraps, or sandwiches.
- Use as a topping for grilled meats, tacos, or roasted vegetables.
- Add to grain bowls or antipasto platters.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with no cooking.
- Flavor booster: Adds instant zing to simple dishes.
- Meal-prep friendly: Make ahead and store for several days.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the flavors to suit your dish.
Marinated Onions
8
servings5
minutesIngredients
1 red onion, peeled and thinly sliced
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
6 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Directions
- Marinate the onions:
- Place the thinly sliced red onion in a small bowl. Sprinkle with salt and pour over the red wine vinegar. Stir to coat evenly and let sit for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice during this time to ensure even marination.
- Add oil and herbs:
- After 15 minutes, add the olive oil and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
- Serve or store:
- Serve immediately, or transfer to a clean, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator if making ahead (see FAQs for storage details).
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