Microwave Baked Onions
A quick and flavorful microwave baked onion dish featuring tender onions infused with lemon, bouillon, and margarine, perfect for a comforting side or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel onions and cut them into sections.
- Place the onion sections in a microwavable dish.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and lemon juice over the onions.
- Add a few granules of chicken bouillon in the center of the onions and top with a pat of margarine.
- Cover the dish and microwave until the onions are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider using sweet onions like Vidalia or Walla Walla. You can substitute margarine with butter or olive oil for a richer taste. If you want a touch of sweetness, add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sugar over the onions. Ensure the dish is covered properly to trap steam, making the onions tender and flavorful. Try pairing with a drizzle of Orange Honey Glaze for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Microwave Baked Onions make a great side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They can also be served atop a bed of rice or quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option. Pair them with a fresh salad or serve alongside crusty bread to soak up any juices. They also complement the flavors of dishes like Turkey Fruit Cup beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the onions in a microwavable dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the onions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Baked Onions contains roughly 18 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 511mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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 red or yellow onions instead of white?
Yes, you can use red or yellow onions, but they will impart different flavors. Red onions will add a slight sweetness and a vibrant color, while yellow onions will provide a more traditional onion flavor. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different onion types.
How do I know when the onions are done cooking?
The onions are done when they are translucent and tender. You can test their doneness by poking them with a fork; they should easily yield to pressure. Cooking times may vary based on the size of the onion sections and the power of your microwave.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the additional vegetables used.
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).