Red onions are often overlooked in favor of their sweeter counterparts, but they bring a depth and complexity to any dish. Whether you’re looking for a flavorful side, a hearty main course, or a creative twist on a classic recipe, red onions are the perfect addition. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of red onions. From sweet and savory tarts to tangy chutneys and creamy risottos, these dishes prove that red onions are more than just a pretty face.
Caramelized Red Onion and Goat Cheese Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the natural sweetness of caramelized red onions with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Brush pastry with beaten egg. Top with caramelized onions and goat cheese crumbles.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Steak with Red Onion Chimichurri
Elevate your grilled steak game with a zesty and flavorful red onion chimichurri that adds a tangy twist to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 pounds flank steak or skirt steak
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine sliced red onion, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar and 2 tablespoons of water.
4. Add the vinegar mixture to the onion mixture; stir well.
5. Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired doneness.
6. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
7. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Onion and Balsamic Glazed Chicken
This sweet and savory chicken dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The caramelized red onions and tangy balsamic glaze add depth and complexity to the rich, juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced red onions and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and minced garlic.
4. Brush the chicken breasts with the balsamic glaze and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve the glazed chicken with the caramelized red onions spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Red Onion and Garlic Soup
This sweet and savory soup is a perfect blend of roasted red onions and garlic, simmered to perfection with chicken broth and cream. Serve warm with crusty bread for a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red onions, peeled
– 6 cloves of garlic, peeled
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the red onions into wedges and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
5. Mince the roasted garlic and sauté in a pot with chicken broth over medium heat.
6. Add the roasted onions, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Red Onion and Feta Stuffed Peppers
These sweet and savory peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of caramelized red onion and crumbly feta cheese, perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced red onion over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stuff each pepper with the onion mixture, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pickled Red Onion and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this flavorful toast that combines the sweetness of pickled red onion, creaminess of avocado, and crunch of toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
– 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red onion, white vinegar, water, and sugar. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat your toaster or toaster oven to toast the bread until lightly browned.
3. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toasted bread.
4. Spoon the pickled red onion over the avocado.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including pickling time)
Red Onion and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto recipe combines sweet caramelized red onions with earthy mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this flavorful dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions; cook until caramelized (about 20 minutes).
2. Add garlic, mushrooms, and wine (if using); cook until mushrooms release their liquid.
3. In a separate pot, bring broth to simmer.
4. Gradually add Arborio rice, stirring constantly. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly toasted.
5. Add butter; stir until melted.
6. Serve risotto hot, garnished with parsley (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Red Onion and Tomato Chutney
Spicy Red Onion and Tomato Chutney Recipe
Summary: This vibrant chutney combines the sweetness of red onions and tomatoes with a kick of heat from green chilies, perfect for serving as a condiment or using as a topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2-3 green chilies, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced red onions and cook until they start to caramelize (about 10 minutes).
3. Add the diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and chopped green chilies to the saucepan.
4. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chutney has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Onion and Gruyère Quiche
A classic quiche recipe gets a flavorful boost from the sweetness of red onions and the creaminess of Gruyère cheese. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this quiche is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large red onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, sauté the sliced onions and butter until caramelized.
4. Arrange the onion mixture on the bottom of the pie crust.
5. Sprinkle the Gruyère cheese evenly over the onions.
6. Whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper. Pour into the pie crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Onion and Herb Focaccia
This flavorful flatbread is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your favorite soups and salads. The sweetness of the red onion pairs beautifully with the fresh herbs, creating a delicious and aromatic focaccia.
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
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
6. Punch down the dough and transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Top with sliced red onion, chopped parsley, and rosemary.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Onion and Blue Cheese Burger
This recipe combines the sweetness of caramelized red onion with the pungency of blue cheese, creating a unique and delicious burger that’s sure to please. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 ounces ground beef
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together ground beef and mayonnaise.
3. Form into 4 patties and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, caramelize the red onion by cooking in olive oil over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Assemble burgers by spreading a layer of blue cheese on the bottom bun, followed by a patty, caramelized onions, and lettuce and tomato if using.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Onion and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful and nutritious breakfast or brunch option, this Red Onion and Sweet Potato Hash combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the pungency of red onions. Perfect for a quick morning meal or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add red onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the onions. Toss to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Red Onion and Cucumber Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the sweetness of red onions with the crunch of cucumbers, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red onion and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the white wine vinegar and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the onion and cucumber mixture, tossing gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Onion and Thyme Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and aromatic side dish. The sweetness of red onions and the earthiness of thyme perfectly complement the natural taste of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potato wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Arrange red onion slices and thyme sprigs over the potatoes.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender.
6. Flip potatoes halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Onion and Black Bean Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these vibrant tacos, packed with sautéed red onions, creamy black beans, and a hint of cumin.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced red onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and slightly charred (about 15-20 minutes).
3. In a separate pan, warm the black beans over low heat with a pinch of cumin and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the black beans onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a spoonful of caramelized red onion.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Onion and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your mealtime with these savory stuffed mushrooms featuring caramelized red onion and wilted spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook red onion over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Stuff each mushroom cap with the onion-spinach mixture and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Red Onion and Apple Slaw
This refreshing slaw is perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or using as a crunchy side dish. The sweetness of the apples pairs beautifully with the pungency of the red onion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red onion and diced apples.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the onion-apple mixture and toss to coat.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This slaw is best served chilled or at room temperature.
Red Onion and Rosemary Flatbread
Elevate your flatbreads with the sweetness of caramelized red onions and the earthiness of rosemary. This flavorful combination is perfect for a quick snack or as a side to your favorite soups.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.
3. Gradually add olive oil, mixing until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5 minutes.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Top with caramelized red onions (cook sliced onions in a pan with olive oil over medium heat for 20-25 minutes or until dark brown) and chopped rosemary leaves.
7. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if using.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Discover the sweet and savory flavors of red onions with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic combinations like caramelized red onion and goat cheese tart to international inspirations such as grilled steak with red onion chimichurri and spicy red onion and tomato chutney, there’s something for every taste. Elevate your meals with the sweetness of roasted red onion and garlic soup or add crunch to your snacks with pickled red onion and avocado toast. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes are sure to delight.
