Grilled Walla Walla Sweet Onions

Prep: 15 mins Cook: 25 mins Difficulty: Easy Serves: 6
kcal fat saturates carbs
100 7g 1g 9g
sugars fibre protein salt
5g 2g 1g 0.4g

Grilled Walla Walla Sweet Onions

There are a multitude of reasons why I absolutely cherish the recipe for Grilled Walla Walla Sweet Onions. For starters, these onions have a unique, gentle sweetness that’s both inviting and unforgettable. When they hit the heat of the grill, that sweetness caramelizes beautifully, creating a rich and complex flavor that’s truly mouthwatering.

A Blend of Family and Flavor

Growing up in Boston with Irish grandparents, I was always surrounded by hearty, comforting dishes that made the most out of simple, high-quality ingredients. The Grilled Walla Walla Sweet Onions recipe carries the same ethos. Using a few fresh herbs and pantry staples like balsamic vinegar and olive oil allows the natural flavors of the onions to shine through. It’s a recipe that embodies a minimalist yet profoundly satisfying approach to cooking, much like the dishes my grandparents used to make.

Health Benefits You’ll Appreciate

Another aspect I love about this recipe is how healthy it is. Onions are rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C, B vitamins, and potassium. They’re also packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which can contribute to overall well-being. Cooking them with olive oil adds a dose of healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health. The addition of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley not only elevates the flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile with their own array of vitamins and antioxidants.

Perfect Pairings

This recipe is remarkably versatile, making it a wonderful side dish to a variety of main courses. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats, particularly steak and chicken. However, if you lean towards seafood, try serving these onions alongside grilled salmon or even lobster for a New England-inspired feast. The sweet, caramelized flavor of the onions enhances both the savoriness of meats and the brininess of seafood.

The Grilled Walla Walla Sweet Onions also bear some similarity to French onion soup, especially when you consider the sweet-savory flavor profile that develops as the onions grill. Another dish that might come to mind is Italian agrodolce, a traditional sweet and sour sauce often used with vegetables. The balance of sweetness and acidity in this recipe offers a less intense, grill-friendly version of such classic flavors.

In essence, this recipe isn’t just about onions; it’s about elevating a humble ingredient into something extraordinary. It’s a nod to my culinary heritage while being a healthy, flavorful addition to any meal. So light up that grill and give the Grilled Walla Walla Sweet Onions a try—you’ll see why it’s one of my favorites.

If you’re curious to explore more about the unique qualities of Walla Walla sweet onions, you might find this link helpful. And for more inspiration on grilling vegetables, check out this guide.

What You’ll Need

  • 6 large Walla Walla Sweet Onions
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
ALLERGENS: None

Method

Step One

Peel the 6 large Walla Walla Sweet Onions and slice them into 1/2 inch thick rings. Carefully separate each slice into individual rings.

Step Two

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and the minced 2 cloves of garlic. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves and 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, chopped.

Step Three

Place the onion rings into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the olive oil mixture over the onions, making sure they are all well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour.

Step Four

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step Five

Remove the onions from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Place the onions on the grill in a single layer. Grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they have nice grill marks and are tender.

Step Six

Remove the grilled onions from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Scroll to Top