Description
Roasted onion is a simple yet transformative ingredient that brings out deep caramelized sweetness and a subtle smoky undertone, elevating any dish with minimal effort. Perfect as a versatile side or garnish, it offers rich depth of flavor, a delightful texture contrast, and pairs well with a variety of cuisines.
Ingredients
Scale
Basic Ingredients
- 3–4 fresh yellow or sweet onions
- 2–3 tablespoons good quality olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Herbs and Extras
- 1–2 teaspoons fresh rosemary or thyme leaves
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika or cumin (for spiced variation)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for balsamic glazed variation)
- 2–3 minced garlic cloves (for garlic roasted variation)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for sweet and savory variation)
- Alternative oils such as coconut oil or avocado oil (for vegan option)
Instructions
- Prepare the onions: Peel the onions and slice them into even wedges or rings to ensure they cook uniformly. This step is essential for even caramelization and achieving a tender texture.
- Season and oil: Place the onion slices on a baking tray, drizzle generously with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss gently to coat every piece, allowing the oil and seasoning to penetrate fully.
- Roast to perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast the onions for about 25 to 30 minutes. Flip the onions halfway through the roasting time to develop golden edges, until they are soft, sweet, and caramelized.
- Add herbs or extras: If using fresh herbs, spices, or optional ingredients like garlic, sprinkle or toss them over the onions in the last 5 minutes of roasting to preserve their aroma and avoid burning.
- Serve or store: Enjoy the roasted onions immediately as a flavorful topping or side dish. Alternatively, let them cool before storing in an airtight container for use later.
Notes
- Cut onions into consistent sizes to ensure even cooking and caramelization.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan — give onions space on the baking sheet so they roast instead of steam.
- Roast at high heat (400°F) to caramelize sugars and develop rich flavors.
- Flip onions halfway through roasting for even browning and to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt right before serving for a delightful crunch.
- Stored properly, roasted onions last 3-4 days refrigerated and up to 3 months frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven rather than microwave to maintain crispness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Universal / Adaptable
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ½ cup
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: roasted onion, caramelized onion, easy side dish, savory onion, baked onion, onion garnish
