Save It A sweet, tender Vidalia onion roasted whole until meltingly soft, with aromatic herbs and butter. It's a simple yet elegant side dish suitable for any occasion.
I first made Onion Boil for a family gathering, and everyone loved how the onions became almost creamy inside while the herbs infused incredible taste. It's now a staple side for our holiday dinners.
Ingredients
- Vidalia onions: 4 large, unpeeled (or other sweet onions)
- Unsalted butter: 4 tbsp
- Fresh thyme: 4 sprigs
- Garlic: 4 cloves, peeled
- Kosher salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp, freshly ground
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare onions:
- Trim root ends and tops so onions sit flat. Keep skins on. Cut a shallow X in the top of each onion.
- Season:
- Place onions on foil squares. Sprinkle each with salt and pepper.
- Add aromatics:
- Press 1 tbsp butter, 1 sprig thyme, and 1 garlic clove into the top of each onion.
- Wrap and roast:
- Wrap onions tightly in foil; set on a baking sheet. Roast for 1 hour 10 minutes until very tender.
- Finish and serve:
- Carefully unwrap, remove skins, and transfer onions to plates. Spoon over the melted butter from foil. Sprinkle parsley if desired.
Save It My grandmother always sat beside me in the kitchen when we made these, sharing stories while the onions roasted slowly and filled the house with a wonderful aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Onion Boil alongside roast meats, grilled vegetables, or as a vegetarian main with crusty bread. Its flavor and texture pair well with a variety of entrees.
Variations
Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika before roasting for extra flavor. Swap Vidalia onions for Walla Walla or Maui if available.
Nutrition
Each serving contains approximately 130 calories, 7 g fat, 19 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save It Add Onion Boil to your next meal for an easy yet impressive side. It's a dish that makes ordinary onions truly shine.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of onions work best?
Sweet onions like Vidalia, Walla Walla, or Maui are ideal for their natural sweetness and tenderness when roasted.
- → Can I prepare this without butter?
Yes, you can substitute butter with vegan butter or olive oil to accommodate dietary preferences.
- → How do I know when the onions are done?
They should be very tender when pierced with a knife, and the interior should easily melt.
- → What herbs complement the dish?
Fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch, while parsley sprinkled at the end brightens the flavors.
- → Can I add additional seasonings?
Yes, a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile.