In addition to pickled onions, you can also try using pickled mustard seeds or pickled ginger as a caper substitute. These ingredients have a similar umami flavor to capers and can add depth and complexity to your dishes. Plus, they're all relatively easy to find in most supermarkets!
If you're feeling adventurous, you could even try using nasturtium seeds as a caper substitute. These seeds have a similar peppery flavor to capers and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads to pasta sauces. Just be sure to harvest them from a safe source to avoid any, ahem, nasty surprises!
Another quirky alternative to capers is pickle relish. This sweet and tangy condiment can add a similar flavor to capers and is great on everything from hot dogs to grilled cheese sandwiches. Just be sure to use it in moderation, as it can be quite overpowering!
15 Best Substitutes For Capers (And How To Use Them) - The Yummy Bowl