| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 375 | 30g | 6g | 25g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 7g | 7g | 0.2g |
There’s something deeply comforting about the Grilled Yellow Onion Salad. Imagine biting into the caramelized sweetness of charred onions, tickling your palate alongside creamy avocados, tangy feta, and the satisfying bite of crisp mixed greens. This dish mirrors my Afro-Southern background, combining the love for grilled food from my Southern roots with the refreshing vibrancy found in many Nigerian Salads.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Not only does the Grilled Yellow Onion Salad burst with flavour, but it’s also brimming with health benefits. The star of the show, the humble yellow onion, enhances the dish with its rich source of antioxidants and sulfur compounds, solidifying its reputation as an immunity-friendly food. Combined with the high amounts of fiber and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats in avocados, this dish gifts you a nutritional powerhouse on a plate.
Pairings and Similar Dishes
One of my favourite aspects about this salad is its versatility. It stands alone as a light lunch perfectly, but also shines when paired alongside a hearty main course. If you’re searching for inspiration, consider coupling it with grilled chicken or fish. As for similar dishes, this salad is reminiscent of the Grilled Vegetable Salad but with a unique twist of sweet grilled onions and the addition of creamy avocados.
A Truly Memorable Salad
Sharing the Grilled Yellow Onion Salad recipe with you feels like sharing a piece of my culinary journey. As a lawyer, I’ve learned how to balance the delicate intricacies of life, much like how this salad brings together a medley of flavors in harmonious balance. The way it combines comfort food elements with refreshing and nutritious ingredients is truly special—a testament to how Afro-Southern fusion cuisine can cater to both the heart and health.
What You’ll Need
- 3 large yellow onions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup feta cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Method
Step One
Start by heating the grill to a moderate heat. While the grill is heating, peel the yellow onions and cut them into thick slices, about 1/2 inch each.
Step Two
Place the onion slices on a tray or large plate. Drizzle them with the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and give them a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Ensure the onion slices are sufficiently coated.
Step Three
When the grill is ready, arrange the onion slices on it. Allow them to grill until they’re charred and tender, which should take about 10 minutes on each side. Once done, remove from the grill and set aside to cool.
Step Four
In the meantime, prepare the salad. Place the mixed salad greens in a large bowl. Cut the avocados into slices or chunks, as preferred, and add them to the bowl. Also add in the cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and pine nuts.
Step Five
Once the onions are cooled, chop them into smaller chunks. Add these to the salad bowl and gently toss all the ingredients together until well mixed.
Step Six
Lastly, make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard and the 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil until well combined. Drizzle this dressing over the salad, tossing again to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step Seven
Your Grilled Yellow Onion Salad is now ready to be enjoyed immediately. Enjoy this delightful dish as a side or as a meal on its own!
