Grilled Red Onions

Prep: 480 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Juicy grilled red onions with a tangy marinade of red wine vinegar, soy sauce, and honey, perfect as a flavorful side dish for barbecues and gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 4 large red onions
  • 1 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 cup soy sauce
  • 1 cup honey
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Place onions in a 1-gallon resealable plastic bag.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and ground black pepper.
  3. Pour the vinegar mixture into the bag with onions and seal.
  4. Refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight to marinate.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  6. Using a slotted spoon, place onions in the skillet and cook until browned on both sides.
  7. Drain the onions on paper towels.
  8. Serve warm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade. If you want to reduce the sweetness, substitute half of the honey with agave syrup. To make this a vegan recipe, simply replace honey with maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener. Ensure the onions are cut evenly for uniform cooking.

Serving Suggestions

These grilled red onions make a fantastic topping for burgers or sandwiches and pair well with grilled meats and vegetables. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or incorporate them into dishes like the Barbecue Beef Yankee for added flavor. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an extra touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover grilled red onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or microwave them in short intervals. They can also be enjoyed cold in salads or sandwiches.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grilled Red Onions contains roughly 283 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1220mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).

283 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.2g 12% DV
Total Fat 16.2g 21% DV
Carbs 30.1g 11% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 7.1g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1219.9mg 53% DV
Potassium 466.8mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 16.2mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 246mcg 27% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Calcium 37mg 3% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use yellow or white onions instead of red onions?

While red onions are preferred for their sweetness and color, yellow or white onions can be used. They will have a sharper flavor, so consider adding a bit more honey or marinating for a longer time to achieve a balanced taste.

How long should I marinate the onions?

Marinating the onions for at least 8 hours or overnight is recommended for the best flavor absorption. The longer they marinate, the more pronounced the sweet and tangy flavors will be, enhancing the overall dish.

What can I serve with grilled red onions?

Grilled red onions pair well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can be served on top of salads. They also complement dishes like the Oven Crisp Chicken Strips, adding a smoky-sweet element that enhances the meal.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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