
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)
Soupa Nisiotiki
Island Soup Cooking Time: 40 minutes.
Soup Cream of Dried Beans
Soup Cream of Dried Beans from the Recidemia collection
Soup du Jour
Soup du Jour from the Recidemia collection
Soupe Giraumon
Haitian pumpkin soup.
Souper Tomato Dressing
Soup, Tomato, Canned, Condensed by the US Department of Agriculture, public domain government resource—original source of recipe Serves: 32
Soup with Plantain Balls
Soup with Plantain Balls from the Recidemia collection
Sour Cream Cole Slaw
Sour Cream Cole Slaw from the Recidemia collection
Sour Soup with Chicken
In Romanian: Borş de pui
Sour Soup with Dry Beans
In Romanian: Borş de fasole boabe
Sour Soup with Fish and Sauerkraut Liquid
In Romanian: Ciorba de peste cu zeama de varza
Sour Soup with Green Beans
Sour Soup with Green Beans from the Recidemia collection
Sour Soup with Green Beans I
In Romanian: Borş de fasole verde I
Sour Soup with Green Beans II
In Romanian: Bors de fasole verde II
Sour Soup with Lamb
Sour Soup with Lamb from the Recidemia collection
Sour Soup with Veal
In Romanian: Bors de vitel
SOUSE
SOUSE from the Recidemia collection
Southeast Asian Miso Soup
Southeast Asian Miso Soup from the Recidemia collection
Southern Beef and Beans Casserole
Contributed by World Recipes Y-Group
Southern Clam Chowder
Southern cuisine (USA) Seafood recipes
Southern Cole Slaw
This can be made in a food processor or with a shredder. Best made in food processor.
Southwestern Casserole
Southwestern Casserole from the Recidemia collection
Southwestern Chili
Southwestern Chili from the Recidemia collection
Southwestern Sloppy Joes
Original recipe Source: Diabetic Cooking Magazine Submitted by: dlife 9 Servings
Southwestern Stew on Soft Polenta
Southwestern Stew on Soft Polenta from the Recidemia collection
Southwestern Vegetable Stew
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Southwest Pasta
Pasta tossed with spices and vegetables from the Southwest United States.
Soybean-Lentil-Rice Loaf
Soybean-Lentil-Rice Loaf from the Recidemia collection
Soy Minestrone
Soy Minestrone from the Recidemia collection
Soynut Cilantro Rice Pilaf
Soynut Cilantro Rice Pilaf from the Recidemia collection
Soy Supper
Yield: 4 servings
Spaetzle with Fennel
Spaetzle with Fennel from the Recidemia collection
Spaghetti alla Putanesca
Spaghetti alla Putanesca from the Recidemia collection
Spaghetti, Artichoke Heart and Zucchini Frittata
This frittata makes great use of leftover pasta. Toss in any vegetables you have on hand: thin, fresh asparagus cut into small pieces is especially nice.
Spaghetti Salad
Spaghetti Salad
SPAGHETTI SEASONING
SPAGHETTI SEASONING from the Recidemia collection
Spaghetti Squash Soup
Always check the ingredients to make sure the product is vegan.
Spaghetti with Herb Sauce
Spaghetti with Herb Sauce from the Recidemia collection
Spaghetti with Spring Vegetables
Spaghetti with Spring Vegetables from the Recidemia collection
Spaghetti with Turkey Meat Sauce
This is way too high in carbs... So try your favorite healhty/low carb pasta or better yet try Spaghetti Squash!

Spanakopita
Spanakopita is a Greek spinach pie. This recipe serves 8. 250 px|a slice of Spanakopita.
Spanish Bulgur
Bulgur (cracked wheat), garbanzos (chick peas) and soy nuts combine to provide complete protein which tastes as good or even better than Spanish rice. Makes 8 cups.
Spanish Catfish Paella
A Catfish recipe.
Spanish Cocido
This is a traditional Madrid style stew. You can cook this quicker at a higher temperature, but it really is worth cooking it slower to get the Beef very tender.
Spanish Omelet
The Spanish tortilla is one of the best-known Spanish dishes, and it would be very rare to find a tapas bar that does not offer the Spanish tortilla.
Spanish Paella
Fruits and Veggies Matter, Adult Recipe Cards by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention—public domain government resource This Spanish-inspired rice dish includes shrimp and lots of vegetables.
Spanish Quinoa
This recipe comes from Eden Organic Foods.
Spanish Rice
Spanish Rice from the Recidemia collection
Spanish Rice and Ham
Spanish Rice and Ham from the Recidemia collection
Spanish Rice Bake
Tomatoes Canned by the US Department of Agriculture, public domain government resource—original source of recipe Serves: 4
Spanish Rice I
Contributed by World Recipes Y-Group This Y-group is