Balsamic Roasted Onions Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because the rich balsamic glaze transforms humble red onions into a sweet and tangy masterpiece, making every bite feel like a gourmet treat. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—I can add these roasted gems to salads, sandwiches, or use them as a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats for a deliciously sophisticated meal.

I adore the robust, delectable taste of balsamic-roasted onions that make the perfect addition to nearly any dish. Pairing red onions with balsamic vinegar and olive oil creates a glaze that is equal parts sweet, tangy, and delicious, made even better with a touch of honey (or maple syrup if you want to keep it vegan), and fresh thyme.

Roasted onions, like caramelized onions, are a great way to get a deep, rich flavor that works in a variety of applications, from sweet to savory. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds just enough sweetness to complement the tangy balsamic vinegar and really makes the flavors pop.

I bring caramelized onion energy (but with way less fuss) to a few dishes nearly every week because they are versatile and delicious.

Ingredients

• Red Onions: Rich in antioxidants, add natural sweetness and a subtle pungency.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Offers a tangy, sweet complexity, rich in polyphenols.
• Olive Oil: Provides heart-healthy fats and enhances flavor depth.
• Honey/Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners balancing vinegar’s acidity, offer trace nutrients.
• Fresh Thyme: Aromatic herb with antioxidants, infuses earthy flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 medium-sized red onions
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to warm up.

2. Remove the skin of the red onions and slice them into quarters, leaving the root end intact so the layers stay together.

3. In a big bowl, blend well together whisking, the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), fresh thyme leaves, salt, and black pepper.

4. Place the quartered onions in the bowl and gently toss them to coat evenly with the balsamic mixture.

5. Place the onions in a roasting pan or baking dish, pouring the rest of the balsamic mixture over them. Make sure they are in a single layer.

6. Cook the onions in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until they are soft and tasting sweet. Stir once halfway through cooking to make sure they are roasting evenly.

7. Check the doneness of the onions by piercing them with a fork; they should be soft but still hold their shape.

8. Take the onions out of the oven and allow them to cool slightly in the pan so that the flavors can meld.

9. Move the onions that were sauteed in oil to a serving dish, drizzling any pan drippings over them so they soak up all that good, onion-flavored juice.

10. As a side dish, the balsamic roasted onions are wonderful. And they’re so much more versatile. Consider them for:

* salads
* sandwiches
* grilled meats (the topping kind of grilled meats)

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Knife
3. Cutting board
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Whisk
6. Roasting pan or baking dish
7. Fork
8. Serving dish

FAQ

• Q: Can I use yellow or white onions instead of red onions?A: Yes, you can use yellow or white onions instead of red onions, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Q: Is there an alternative to honey or maple syrup in this recipe?A: You can use agave syrup or brown sugar as substitute sweeteners.
• Q: Can this dish be made ahead of time?A: Certainly, the onions may be prepped a full day ahead of time and rewarmed right before you serve them.
• Q: What is the best way to store leftovers?A: Refrigerate remnants within an airtight container for no longer than 72 hours.
• Q: Can I add other herbs or spices to this dish?A: Yes, indeed! Rosemary and oregano are excellent options to add flavor.
• Q: How long should I roast the onions for optimal texture?A: At 400°F (200°C), roast the onions for roughly 25-30 minutes until they become tender and caramelized.
• Q: What dishes pair well with balsamic roasted onions?These onions work beautifully with roasted meats and grilled veggies, or as salad and sandwich toppings.

Substitutions and Variations

Balsamic vinegar can be replaced with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. They provide a different yet equally tangy flavor profile.
Olive oil. Substitute with melted coconut oil or avocado oil for a radically different taste.
Agave nectar or brown sugar can be used to achieve a different kind of sweetness in place of honey or maple syrup.
Thyme leaves, fresh: Substitute with dried thyme (half the amount) or use rosemary for an equally herbaceous note.

Pro Tips

1. Caramelization Boost: For extra caramelization, sprinkle a bit of brown sugar over the onions before roasting. This will enhance their sweetness and create a beautiful glaze.