
onion
Onions are a good source of vitamin C, dietary fiber, and prebiotic compounds (inulin). They contain quercetin and other polyphenolic antioxidants, particularly concentrated in the outer layers and red varieties.
About
The onion (Allium cepa) is a bulbous vegetable belonging to the amaryllidaceae family, native to the highlands of Central Asia. The edible bulb consists of concentric layers of modified leaves containing sulfurous compounds responsible for the characteristic pungent aroma and tear-inducing properties when cut. Common varieties include yellow (sweet and mellow), red (slightly sweeter with mild peppery notes), and white onions (sharper, more pungent), each offering distinct flavor profiles and textural qualities. The plant's flavor compounds transform dramatically with cooking—sulphur-containing compounds break down into sweet, caramelized notes through the Maillard reaction.
Yellow onions are the most versatile all-purpose variety in European and North American cuisines, while red onions are preferred for raw preparations due to their milder flavor and visual appeal. Pearl onions and cipollini represent smaller, sweeter cultivars used for specific applications.
Culinary Uses
Onions function as a foundational aromatic base in countless cuisines worldwide. They are sautéed as a primary component in mirepoix (French), soffritto (Italian), and holy trinity preparations (Louisiana Creole), forming the flavor foundation for stocks, soups, stews, and sauces. Caramelized onions develop deep, sweet complexity through prolonged cooking and appear in French onion soup, as a burger topping, and in numerous savory tarts.
Raw onions provide sharp, pungent flavor to fresh salsas, slaws, pickles, and salads. Grilled or roasted onions become tender and develop subtle sweetness, complementing grilled meats and vegetables. Creamed onions, onion relishes, and crispy fried onions represent further preparations across global culinary traditions.
Used In
Recipes Using onion (2,755)
Roasted Garlic and Potato Soup
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Roasted Peppers and Eggplant
This recipe is for 3 serves.
Roasted Pork with Beans, Radicchio and Garlic
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Makes 4 servings.
Roasted Tomatillo Guacamole
Roasted Tomatillo Guacamole from the Recidemia collection
Roasted Tomatillo Salsa
If you're pressed for time, you may want to try a jarred brand of tomatillo salsa instead of making it from scratch. We can't attest to the quality of all of them, but we do love Rick Bayless's, which has a fine, robust flavor.
Roasted Yellow Pepper Soup
Roasted Yellow Pepper Soup from the Recidemia collection

Roast Goose
Roast Goose
Rødbedsuppe
Beet Soup - Serves 6 Beet Soup - Rødbedsuppe
Rolitos
Cuisine of Gibraltar
Roman Beef Strips
Makes 6 servings.
Romanian Chicken Soup
In Romanian: Supa de pasare
Root Beer Baked Beans
Root Beer Baked Beans from the Recidemia collection
Root Vegetable Curry
Root Vegetable Curry from the Recidemia collection
Ropa Vieja
Authentic Cuban dish of ropa vieja (shredded flank steak in a tomato sauce base), black beans, white rice, plantains and fried yuca with beer.
Rosemary Lyonnaise Potatoes
This recipe is from Step by Step Microwave Healthy Eating. Preparation takes about 10 minutes Cooking takes 12 – 15 minutes.
Rosół
Rosół is a traditional Polish meat broth. The most popular variety is Rosół z kury, or clear chicken (hen) soup. It is commonly served with fine noodles, often home made, like Jewish lokshen.
Rosolli Salad
'Rosolli' salad
Rotini with Spicy Andouille Sauce
Rotini with Spicy Andouille Sauce I created this to celebrate my bit of Cajun heritage on Mardi Gras 2004 (many of my father's family lived near Lake Charles, Louisiana)!
Rouladen
Rouladen
Roy's Cafe Chili for a Crowd
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group
Ruby Sandals Marinara Sauce
Always check the ingredients to make sure the product is vegan.
Rundervink met paprikasaus
The Rundervink (mince wrapped in meat, which can be bought ready made in the butcher's or made at home) is a staple. Combined with this tasty peppersauce, it is a lovely and quick meat accompaniment to any meal.
Russian Beef and Cabbage Stew
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group * Source: The New Fa
Russian Cabbage Soup
Russian Cabbage Soup from the Recidemia collection
Russian Salad Dressing I
This is a recipe I obtained from an Estate sale. I obtained it when I purchased the family collection from the Manes Estate in Venus, Texas in 1981.
Russian Soup with Meat
Russian Soup with Meat In Romanian: Ciorba ruseasca (cu carne)
Saag Aloo
Saag Aloo
Saag Gosht
Ethnicity - Punjabi, North Indian Type of meal - Party, Lunch, Dinner
Sabse Borani
Sabse Borani from the Recidemia collection
Sabzi Piez
Braised onions and carrots * serves 4 to 6
Saffron Almond Rice Pilaf
Always check the ingredients to make sure the product is vegan.
Saffron and Tomato Rice Pilaf
Saffron and Tomato Rice Pilaf from the Recidemia collection
Saffron Mushroom Rice
Makes 6 servings.
Saffron Paella Salad
Makes 4 servings.
Saffron Rice
Saffron rice is yellow or tan, with a taste reminiscent of spice breads and spice cakes. It goes well with chicken. This recipe serves 4.
Saffron Rice I
Makes 4 servings.
Saffron Rice Pilaf
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Sage Chicken with Tomato Rice
Cook Time: About an hour Serves: 4
Sage Dressing for Chicken
From "Healthy Recipes For Diabetic Friends Y-Group" Original recipe Servings: 6
Sailor Soup
Sailor Soup from the Recidemia collection
Sajan Leaves Soup with Fish
Sajan Leaves Soup with Fish from the Recidemia collection
Salad Creole
Salad Creole from the Recidemia collection
Salade de Coquilles
Salade de Coquilles from the Recidemia collection
Salata Hummus (Chickpea Salad)
Salata Hummus (Chickpea Salad) from the Recidemia collection
Salatit Krumb II
Salatit Krumb II from the Recidemia collection
Salem Tavern Maryland Corn Chowder
Contributed by World Recipes Y-Group * Makes About 1
Salmon and Spinach Soup
Contributed by Jenn b Aka Mom2sam and Tiny at World Re
Salmon Chowder
Salmon Chowder from the Public Health Cookbook, Seattle & King County Department of Public Health—original source of recipe—US government resource in the public domain Serves: 6
Salmon Macaroni Salad
Adeline, Juneau, Alaska
Salmon spaghetti
Austrian Cuisine In Norse mythology there is a story about Loki, the god of mischief and strife: In order to escape punishment by the other gods for trying to trick the blind god Hod into killing Baldur, the god of beauty and light, Loki jumped into a river and transformed himself into a salmon.