As the weather warms up, it’s time to dust off the grill and start cooking up some delicious meals outside. And what better way to add flavor to your grilled dishes than with onions? With their versatile and savory taste, onions are the perfect ingredient for any grilling recipe.
In this article, we’ve compiled a selection of mouthwatering onion recipes for grilling that will take your summer cooking to the next level. From easy and healthy options to flavor-packed side dishes, we’ve got you covered. So, fire up the grill and get ready to savor summer with these delicious onion recipes for grilling.
Grilled Onion Recipes for Every Occasion
Grilled onions are a versatile ingredient that’s perfect for any occasion. Here are some easy and delicious grilled onion recipes that are sure to impress your guests:
Grilled BBQ Onion Steaks
| Ingredients: | 4 large onions, cut into 1-inch rounds | 1/4 cup BBQ sauce | 1 tbsp olive oil | Salt and pepper to taste |
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| Instructions: | 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. | 2. Brush onion rounds with olive oil, salt, and pepper. | 3. Grill onions for 5-7 minutes on each side or until tender and lightly charred. | 4. Brush onion rounds with BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. |
These onion steaks are perfect for a BBQ party or a summer dinner. The combination of the smoky flavor from the grill and the sweet tangy BBQ sauce is unbeatable.
Stuffed Grilled Onions
| Ingredients: | 4 large onions | 1 lb ground beef | 1/2 cup breadcrumbs | 1/4 cup chopped parsley | 2 cloves garlic, minced | 1 tbsp olive oil | Salt and pepper to taste |
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| Instructions: | 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. | 2. Peel onions and cut the top and bottom off so they can stand flat. | 3. Scoop out the center of the onions, leaving two outer layers. | 4. In a bowl, mix beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. | 5. Stuff the onions with the beef mixture. | 6. Brush the onions with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. | 7. Grill onions for 25-30 minutes or until the beef is cooked through. |
These stuffed onions are a unique and filling option for any meal. The juicy beef combined with the sweet onion provides a tasty burst of flavor in every bite.
Grilled Onion Rings
| Ingredients: | 2 large onions, cut into rings | 1 cup flour | 1 tsp smoked paprika | 1 tsp garlic powder | 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper | 1 cup milk | 1 cup bread crumbs | 1 tbsp olive oil | Salt and pepper to taste |
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| Instructions: | 1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. | 2. In a bowl, mix together flour, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. | 3. In another bowl, pour milk for dipping. | 4. In a third bowl, mix bread crumbs, salt, pepper. | 5. Dip onion rings first in flour, then in milk, and finally in bread crumbs. | 6. Brush onion rings with olive oil. | 7. Grill onion rings for 6-8 minutes on each side or until golden brown. |
These grilled onion rings are a crowd favorite and a perfect companion for burgers or grilled chicken. The crispy texture and savory flavor make it impossible to eat just one!
Flavorful Onion Recipes for Outdoor Cooking
Grilling onions is an excellent way to add a smoky and charred flavor to any dish. Here are some flavorful onion recipes that are perfect for outdoor cooking:
Grilled Onion and Pepper Skewers
This recipe is a colorful and delicious way to enjoy grilled onions. Cut onions and peppers into chunks, then skewer them and grill for about 10-12 minutes. Serve as a side dish or add grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal.
Grilled Onion and Shrimp Kabobs
This grilled onion recipe is perfect for seafood lovers. Create a marinade using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite seasonings. Thread skewers with shrimp, onion chunks, and your choice of veggies. Grill for 5-7 minutes, and serve hot.
Both these recipes are easy to make and can be customized to suit individual tastes. They are perfect for a summer BBQ or a picnic with family and friends.
Easy and Healthy Onion Recipes for Grilling
Grilling onions doesn’t have to be an indulgent affair. With some simple tweaks to your recipes, you can enjoy mouthwatering onion dishes that are also healthy and light. Here are some easy and nutritious onion recipes for your next grilling session:
Grilled Onion and Feta Salad
This salad is a perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Simply grill some sliced onions until they are soft and caramelized, then toss them with fresh greens, crumbled feta cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette. The onions add a smoky note to the salad, while the feta provides a creamy texture.
Grilled Onion and Chickpea Wraps
If you’re looking for a filling and satisfying lunch option, these grilled onion and chickpea wraps are perfect. Marinate some sliced onions in lemon juice and olive oil, then grill them until they are charred. Stuff them into a whole wheat wrap with some chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and fresh herbs. The combination of smoky onions and zesty chickpeas is unbeatable.
These recipes are great options for those who want to enjoy the delicious taste of grilled onions without the added calories. Plus, onions are a great source of vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any dish.
Mouthwatering Onion Side Dishes for Grilling
Grilled onions are not just a side dish, but a game-changer for outdoor cooking. They add a burst of flavor to grilled meats, burgers, or vegetables, and are a perfect accompaniment to any summer meal. Here are some mouthwatering onion side dishes for grilling that will kick your grilling experience up a notch:
1. Grilled Onion and Bacon Potato Salad
This hearty potato salad is perfect for any BBQ or picnic. The combination of grilled onions, crispy bacon, and tender potatoes create a mouthwatering and savory experience. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal side dish for entertaining guests.
2. Grilled Onion and Corn Salsa
If you’re looking for a refreshing and flavorful side dish, try this grilled onion and corn salsa. The smoky taste of grilled onions adds depth to the sweetness of the corn, while the bell peppers and cilantro create a fresh summer vibe. It’s perfect with tortilla chips or as a topping for grilled chicken or fish.
3. Grilled Onion Rings
Who doesn’t love onion rings? This classic street-food favorite can be easily grilled at home. The charred and crispy texture outside and the tender and sweet onion inside are a winning combination. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy this irresistible side dish.
4. Grilled Onion and Zucchini Salad
This grilled onion and zucchini salad is a perfect light side dish for any summer meal. The grilled onions and zucchini add a smoky flavor to the fresh lettuce and tomatoes. The lemon and olive oil dressing creates a tangy and refreshing taste. It’s an easy and healthy option that won’t leave you feeling weighed down.
5. Grilled Onion and Feta Flatbread
This grilled onion and feta flatbread is a perfect appetizer or side dish. The smoky flavor of the grilled onions pairs perfectly with the salty and tangy feta cheese. The flatbread crust provides a crispy texture, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
These delicious onion-based side dishes are sure to be a hit at your next grilling event. Enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Grilling Onions
Grilling onions is a delicious and versatile way to enhance your summer meals. Here are some tips and tricks to help you grill onions to perfection:
Preparing the Onions
Before grilling, it’s important to properly prepare the onions. Start by removing the outer layer and cutting off both ends. Then, cut the onion into slices or wedges to your desired thickness. Keeping the slices or wedges intact will make it easier to flip them on the grill.
Seasoning the Onions
Onions have a lot of natural flavor, but they can also benefit from some seasoning. Try tossing the onion slices or wedges in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling. You can also experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or cumin.
Grilling Techniques
When it comes to grilling onions, there are two main techniques: direct heat and indirect heat. Direct heat involves placing the onions directly over the flame or coals and cooking for a short amount of time. Indirect heat involves placing the onions to the side of the grill, away from the flame or coals, and cooking for a longer amount of time. Both techniques can give your onions a delicious charred flavor, so experiment with both to see which you prefer.
Marinating the Onions
If you have time, consider marinating your onions before grilling. A simple marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs will add extra flavor and tenderness to your onions. Simply toss the onion slices or wedges in the marinade, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Grilling Time
The grilling time for onions will vary depending on the thickness of the slices or wedges and the grilling technique you choose. Generally, direct heat will take around 5-10 minutes, while indirect heat can take up to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the onions and flip them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Grilled onions can be used in a variety of ways. Serve them as a side dish or use them to top burgers, hot dogs, or grilled chicken. You can also chop the grilled onions and add them to salads or sandwiches for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions about Grilling Onions
Grilling onions can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s understandable to have some questions along the way. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about grilling onions.
How long should I grill onions for?
This can vary depending on the size and thickness of your onion slices or wedges. Generally, you’ll want to grill them for 5-8 minutes per side. Be sure to flip them halfway through cooking.
What is the recommended temperature for grilling onions?
Medium-high heat, around 375-400°F, is ideal for grilling onions.
What type of onions are best for grilling?
Red, white, and yellow onions are all great options for grilling. Sweet onions like Vidalia are also a popular choice.
Can I grill onions without a grill?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook onions on a grill pan or on a stovetop griddle. You can also roast them in the oven.
How should I slice my onions for grilling?
Slice your onions into 1/2 inch thick rounds or cut them into wedges. Thicker slices will hold up better on the grill.
Can I marinate onions before grilling?
Absolutely! Marinades can add extra flavor to your grilled onions. Just be sure to not leave them in the marinade for too long, as the acid can start to break down the onions. 30 minutes to an hour should be plenty of time.