When you think of Hawaiian cuisine, what comes to mind? The vibrant flavors of tropical fruits and fresh seafood are hard to resist, but let’s not forget about the delightful crunch of pickled onions! These tangy bites bring a burst of flavor to any dish, and in Hawaii, they add a unique twist that you’ll want to explore.
Hawaiian Sweet and Sour Pickled Onions
Imagine a perfect balance of sweetness and tang in every bite! This recipe combines white onions with a delightful mixture of sugar, vinegar, and a touch of soy sauce, creating a mouthwatering taste that complements any meal. These onions are especially popular as a topping for poke bowls or grilled fish, adding a refreshing zing that brightens every dish.
Spicy Hawaiian Pickled Onions
If you love a bit of heat, then this recipe is calling your name! With jalapeños or Hawaiian chili peppers added to the mix, these pickled onions pack a flavorful punch. The combination of red onions, vinegar, garlic, and spices creates a zesty topping that jazzes up tacos, burgers, or even a simple salad. You’ll love the way the spiciness dances on your taste buds!
Coconut Lime Pickled Onions
Take your taste buds on a tropical vacation with this unique recipe! The addition of coconut water and lime juice gives the pickled onions a refreshing twist that’s perfect for summer. Pair these with grilled meats or seafood, and you’ll find that the sweet and tangy flavors create a delicious harmony that’s simply irresistible. It’s like a little piece of paradise in a jar!
Huli Huli Pickled Onions
Inspired by the beloved Huli Huli chicken, these pickled onions bring the essence of Hawaiian barbecue to your table. Marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, pineapple juice, and ginger, these onions are sweet, savory, and oh-so-satisfying. They make a fantastic accompaniment to grilled dishes, adding a delightful crunch and an explosion of flavor that everyone will love!
Garlic and Herb Pickled Onions

Pickled Onions & Garlic from Chic Eats
Ingredients: Sauvignon blanc, yellow mustard seed, garlic, white vinegar, fresh dill

Quick Pickled Red Onions from simply ceecee
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Red pepper flakes, red onion, garlic, white vinegar, sugar Total Time: 7 mins.

Pickled Red Onion from Feasting At Home
Rating: 5. Ingredients: White wine vinegar, jalapeno, red onion, curry leaves, mustard seed Total Time: 10 mins.
For those who adore the rich flavor of garlic, this recipe is a must-try! Infused with fresh herbs like cilantro and oregano, these pickled onions come together with vinegar and spices, creating a zesty and aromatic topping. They’re perfect for enhancing your favorite sandwiches or tacos, and they can even stand alone as a tasty snack. It’s a flavor-packed treat that no garlic lover should miss!
Hawaiian Ahi Poke Pickled Onions

Quick Pickled Onions from Bowls Are The New Plates
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.

Homemade Shoyu Ahi Poke (Hawaiian Tuna Poke) from Plays Well With Butter
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 1 h 30 min Total Time: 1 h 30 min.
This recipe features pickled onions that are specifically designed to complement the iconic Hawaiian poke bowl. The sweet and tangy onions are made using a light rice vinegar and a hint of sesame oil, bringing out the natural flavors of the fresh fish. These onions add a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor to your poke, making it a dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Trust me, once you try this combination, you’ll never want to eat poke without them again!