White Onion

White onions are a versatile kitchen staple, known for their pungent, sharp flavor that mellows upon cooking. Their crisp, white flesh makes them ideal for dishes where a strong onion flavor is desired, adding a noticeable bite. Visually, white onions have a papery, almost translucent skin and a rounded shape, distinct from yellow or red onions. Learn how to use these affordable and readily available alliums in your favorite recipes or how to store white onions for extended use.

Common Uses

  • Use diced white onions as a base for flavorful soups and stews: White onions are often sauteed or caramelized to create a sweet and savory foundation for hearty broths and creamy soups. Their strong flavor profile blends seamlessly with other vegetables and proteins, creating a balanced taste.
  • Incorporate sliced white onions into fresh salsas and salads for a zesty kick: The sharp, raw flavor of white onions is perfect for adding a vibrant edge to Mexican salsas, such as pico de gallo, or summer salads like a classic potato salad.
  • Grill white onions alongside meats and vegetables for a smoky char and enhanced sweetness: Grilling white onions softens their texture and brings out their natural sweetness, making them a delicious accompaniment to barbecued meats, grilled vegetables, or even veggie burgers.
  • Add chopped white onions to stir-fries for an aromatic flavor and added crunch: White onions provide a distinctive fragrance and subtle crunch when added to Asian-inspired stir-fries. They complement other aromatics like garlic and ginger, and can be added at various stages of cooking depending on desired intensity.
  • Pickle thinly sliced white onions for a tangy condiment or garnish: Pickled white onions offer a delightful contrast in flavor and texture, adding a bright and tangy element to sandwiches, tacos, or charcuterie boards. The pickling process tempers their sharpness while enhancing their naturally sweet undertones.
  • Caramelize white onions slowly over low heat to create a sweet and savory topping for burgers and pizzas: Slow caramelization transforms the pungent white onion into a decadently sweet and savory delight, perfect for elevating everyday dishes like burgers, pizzas, or grilled cheese sandwiches.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

44.2kcal (2.21%)

Protein

1.5g (3%)

Carbs

10.2g (3.71%)

Sugars

4.7g (9.4%)

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Rich in antioxidants and may help fight free radicals.
  • May support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
  • Contains compounds that may have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Good source of Vitamin C, supporting immune function.
  • May aid in digestion due to its fiber content.
  • Contains prebiotics that promote a healthy gut microbiome.

Storage Tips

Store white onions in a cool, dry, and dark place with good ventilation. Avoid storing them near potatoes, as they release moisture and gases that can cause onions to spoil faster. Whole, unpeeled onions can last for several weeks when stored properly. Once cut, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within a week.

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