Onion Salad
A tangy, sweet onion salad with vinegar and herbs, perfect for pairing with grilled dishes or adding a flavorful crunch to sandwiches and burgers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except onions and heat until sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the hot mixture over sliced onions.
- Refrigerate in a covered container.
- Serve onion slices and some liquid on lettuce leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or substituting the sugar with honey for a different sweetness profile. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 15 minutes before mixing. This salad is versatile, allowing substitutions like red onions or apple cider vinegar for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the onion salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing appetizer or side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or sandwiches, making it a great accompaniment for summer barbecues. For a complete meal, try it alongside Karen Peck's Country Fried Steak.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover onion salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to meld, improving over time. To enjoy, simply serve chilled; there's no need to reheat this dish as it is best served cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Onion Salad contains roughly 71 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 494mg per serving (21% 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 onions instead of white onions?
Yes, red onions can be used for a slightly different flavor and a pop of color. They offer a milder taste and add a beautiful hue to the salad, making it visually appealing, especially when served on a plate.
How long does this salad need to marinate?
For the best flavor, allow the onion salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. This gives the onions time to absorb the vinegar mixture, resulting in a more flavorful dish. However, it can be served after just a few hours if you're short on time.
Is this salad suitable for vegan diets?
Absolutely! This onion salad is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those looking for refreshing vegan recipes that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
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).