Red onions are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. Their sweet and savory flavor profile makes them a perfect addition to a wide range of dishes, from savory tarts and pizzas to hearty soups and salads. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of red onions. From classic combinations like caramelized onions on a tart to innovative twists like pickled onions in tacos, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Caramelized Red Onion Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the deep flavor of caramelized red onions with a buttery crust, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onion slices over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and dark golden brown.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place on prepared baking sheet.
4. Spread the cooked onions over the center of the tart, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle over the onions. Fold the edges of the tart up and over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush the crust with a little water and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Steak with Red Onion Chimichurri
Elevate your steak game with this Argentine-inspired recipe that combines the rich flavor of grilled steak with the tangy zip of red onion chimichurri.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine red onion, parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil. Blend until well combined.
3. Season steak with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
5. Serve sliced steak with red onion chimichurri spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Onion and Feta Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your snack game with these crunchy and flavorful Red Onion and Feta Stuffed Peppers! A perfect combination of sweet peppers, tangy feta, and pungent onions will become your new go-to appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 large red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chopped onion, feta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the onion-feta mixture, leaving some space at the top.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Red Onion Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized red onions, balsamic glaze, and gooey mozzarella cheese on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced red onion and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar and honey.
4. Spread the cooked red onions on the pre-baked pizza crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the onions, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Onion and Goat Cheese Quiche
This quiche is a perfect combination of sweet caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese, wrapped in a flaky pastry crust. It’s an ideal dish for brunch or as a main course for a light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 3/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions in olive oil over medium heat until caramelized.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Arrange the cooked onions evenly over the pastry crust.
5. Top with crumbled goat cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and heavy cream. Pour the mixture over the onion-goat cheese layer.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Red Onion Chutney
This vibrant chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip for snacks. With its tangy sweetness and spicy kick, it’s sure to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 teaspoons sriracha sauce (depending on desired level of heat)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium-high heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re caramelized and dark brown.
2. Add the apple cider vinegar, water, honey, grated ginger, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in crushed red chilies or sriracha sauce (to taste).
5. Let cool before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Red Onion and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and colorful bruschetta recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or everyday snacking. Sweet red onions and juicy tomatoes come together to create a delightful combination on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, red onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Spoon the tomato mixture over toasted bread.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Roasted Red Onion Soup
Roasted Red Onion Soup Recipe
This sweet and savory soup is a perfect blend of caramelized red onions, aromatic spices, and creamy textures. A delicious and comforting meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red onions, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the chopped onions with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Spread the onion mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
4. In a large pot, combine the roasted onions, broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Onion and Mushroom Risotto
Red Onion and Mushroom Risotto: A creamy and savory Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized red onions with the earthy flavor of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions and mushrooms. Cook for 1 minute.
5. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the skillet, stirring constantly, and repeat process until all broth is used (about 20-25 minutes).
7. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Pickled Red Onion Tacos
Elevate your taco game with the sweet and tangy combination of pickled red onion, crispy tacos, and savory fillings. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) white vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1/4 cup (60g) granulated sugar
– 1 tsp (5g) salt
– 1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Taco fillings of your choice (e.g., seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, roasted vegetables)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine onion slices, vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper.
2. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the onions to pickle.
3. Preheat a dry skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Warm tortillas for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble tacos with pickled onion, chosen fillings, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including pickling time)
Red Onion and Spinach Frittata
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this flavorful and nutritious Red Onion and Spinach Frittata. This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized onions, the earthiness of spinach, and the creaminess of eggs.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: feta cheese crumbles or chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium heat until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the olive oil and spinach leaves to the skillet; cook until wilted.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Pour into the skillet with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until edges start to set.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the frittata is cooked through.
7. Remove from oven; let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Red Onion and Garlic Confit
Transform red onions and garlic into a sweet and savory spread that’s perfect for topping crackers, bread, or using as a dip. This confit recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 6 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the onion slices and minced garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the onions are caramelized and dark brown.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Red Onion and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
This colorful stir-fry is a perfect blend of sweet bell peppers and savory red onions, with a hint of Asian-inspired flavors. It’s quick to make and packed with nutrients – a great addition to any meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced red onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the bell pepper strips and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until tender.
4. Stir in garlic, soy sauce, and honey. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Onion and Cheddar Scones
These scones combine the sweetness of caramelized red onions with the richness of sharp cheddar, perfect for a savory snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup caramelized red onions (see note)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in grated cheddar and caramelized red onions.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough onto floured surface; gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Pat dough into an 8-inch circle. Cut into 8 triangles or wedges.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch between scones.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To caramelize red onions, cook 1 large onion, thinly sliced, in a skillet with 2 tablespoons oil over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark and sweet.
Red Onion and Herb Roasted Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of red onions with the brightness of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the sliced red onions in a single layer on the bottom of a roasting pan.
6. Put the chicken on top of the onions and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste the chicken with the juices from the pan every 20 minutes to keep it moist.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Onion and Potato Hash
This sweet and savory hash is a perfect side dish or breakfast option, featuring caramelized red onions and crispy potatoes. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor!
Ingredients:
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced onions with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the onions on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
4. While the onions are roasting, boil the diced potatoes in salted water until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cooked potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes or until crispy and golden brown, stirring occasionally.
6. To assemble the hash, combine the roasted onions and potatoes in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Onion and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of red onions with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red onions and diced avocado.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Red Onion and Rosemary Focaccia
This rustic Italian flatbread combines sweet caramelized red onions with the earthy flavor of rosemary, perfect for a flavorful snack or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Top with caramelized red onions and chopped rosemary.
7. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet and savory flavors of red onions with these 18 delicious recipes! From sweet treats like Caramelized Red Onion Tart to savory meals like Grilled Steak with Red Onion Chimichurri, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy classic combinations like Red Onion and Feta Stuffed Peppers or try new twists like Balsamic Glazed Red Onion Pizza. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiche, risotto, or just a simple salad, red onions add a depth of flavor that’s sure to impress.
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