Onions are bulb-shaped vegetables growing underground. Also known as bulb onions or common onions, they are grown worldwide.
Onions are rich in plant compounds and antioxidants,
especially quercetin and sulfur-containing compounds. Colorful varieties, such
as yellow or red ones, have different antioxidants than white ones.
Nutrition Benefits
Fat-free; saturated fat-free; very low sodium; cholesterol free; good source of dietary fiber.
Selection
Choose onions that are firm and dry with bright, smooth outer skins.
Storage
*Store whole onions in a cool, dark, well-ventilated place; use within 4 weeks.
*Refrigerate cut onions in a tightly sealed container; use within 2-3 days.
How to Grow Onions from Seed
Culinary Uses
Onions are served cooked as a vegetable or part of a prepared savory dish and can also be eaten raw or used to make pickles or chutneys. For example, onions may also be used as a main ingredient in French onion soup, creamed onions, and onion chutney. They are versatile and can be baked, boiled, braised, grilled, fried, roasted, sautéed, or eaten raw in salads.
Recipe: RoastedOnions
Tips on how to add onions to your diet:
Onions are served cooked as a vegetable or part of a prepared savory dish and can also be eaten raw or used to make pickles or chutneys. For example, onions may also be used as a main ingredient in French onion soup, creamed onions, and onion chutney. They are versatile and can be baked, boiled, braised, grilled, fried, roasted, sautéed, or eaten raw in salads.
Onions are pungent when chopped and contain certain chemical substances which irritate the eyes.
Onions are toxic to dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and many
other animals.
*Add sliced or diced white, yellow, green, or red onions to your favorite salad.
*Add caramelized onions to savory baked goods.
*Combine cooked onions with other vegetables for a healthy side dish.
*Add cooked onions to egg dishes, such as omelets, frittatas, or quiches.
*Top meat, chicken, or tofu with sautéed onions.
*Use onion and garlic as a base for stocks and soups.
*Make a homemade salsa with onions, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro.
*All onions to soup, chili, or stir-fry
*Blend raw onions with fresh herbs, vinegar, and olive oil for a tasty homemade salad dressing.
Resources
1. Onion, @Fruits_Veggies
2. Planting, Growing, and Harvesting Onions, Old Farmer’s Almanac
3. Health Benefits of Onions, Healthline, by Jillian Kubala, MS, RDN
3. Health Benefits of Onions, Healthline, by Jillian Kubala, MS, RDN
