We all know that onions complement almost any recipe, but these root vegetables can also be the star of the show. Onions are packed with nutrients like vitamin C and fiber, can be prepared in dozens of ways, and bring essential flavors to the table. Why not bring them to center stage every now and then, instead of hiding in a mirepoix?

As one of the nation’s leading onion processors, we decided to show some love to this superfood by highlighting some of our favorite ways to prepare onions and showcase their star qualities.

Roasted Onions Go with Everything!

One of the best ways to showcase onions in a meal is to roast them whole. Sustained, low heat allows for softness on the inside, crispness on the outside, and a delicious caramelized flavor. 

Try roasting a smaller onion like cipollini onions and serving them as a side dish with chicken or beef. To get the perfect consistency, start by coating cipollini onions in melted butter in an oven-safe skillet, then transfer to an oven for 30 minutes (or until tender) on low heat. 

Roasted onions can also be stuffed with meat, cheese, and a variety of fillings, and served as a main dish. Check out some of our favorite stuffed onion recipes. 

Try Out a Classic: French Onion Soup

Another way to let onions steal the show is by creating delicious soups with an onion base. Soften the vegetable first by cooking it down, then add a liquid like broth or cream, and other seasonings.

French onion soup is probably the most popular onion soup recipe, featuring thinly sliced onions in a beef broth with bread and broiled cheese on top. 

You can also try pureeing cooked onions with an immersion blender to create soups or bases with a rich, silky texture like cream of onion soup. 

Pull Out the Air Fryer for Easy Delicious Onions

You’ve roasted onions and made them into soup, now it’s time to fry them. Air fryers are a great way to showcase onions at mealtimes because they’re quick, easy to clean, and cook evenly every time. 

Try making air-fried onion rings by dipping onion slices in all-purpose flour, a beaten egg mixture, then panko bread crumbs. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a delicious, flavorful snack out of onions. 

Bake Onions in a Pie for a Delicious Southern Meal

It might sound strange at first, but southern-style sweet onion pie is one of the best ways to devour onions. By mixing sliced sweet onions with cream, eggs, and sharp cheddar cheese, you can create an American twist on quiche that will be devoured by the whole family. 

If you don’t like cheese or need an egg-free option, try creating a vegan version of onion pie with tofu and plant-based milk. 

More Ways to Showcase Onions

If that’s not enough recipe inspiration for you, here are a few more ways to showcase onions in a meal:

  • Red Onion Flowers – Create decorative, delicious appetizers by scoring peeled red onions and baking them in a sweet and sour sauce. As they cook, the onions will begin to open up like a beautiful flower.
  • Chinese Scallion Pancakes (Cong You Bing) – Make a delightfully crispy, flaky, and flavorful snack with traditional green onion pancakes. These pancakes are prepared in a rolled-out dough, then flattened and pan-fried.
  • Grilled Onion “Steaks”– Let thick sliced onions steal the show by marinating them and throwing them on the grill at your next BBQ. Bite into a thick juicy grilled onion on a summer salad or burger, or enjoy as-is.  

Any way you slice it, onions make an amazing addition (or centerpiece) to any dish. What are your favorite ways to make onions the star of a meal?

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