Perfectly Grilled Cipollini Onions

Name: Perfectly Grilled Cipollini Onions
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 500 g cipollini onions (peeled); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

25 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Sweet and savoury grilled cipollini onions make a delightful side dish or appetizer, perfect for any occasion.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

25 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Grilled cipollini onions are a sweet and savoury addition to any meal. Their natural sugars caramelize beautifully on the grill, creating a deliciously smoky flavour that complements a wide range of dishes. This recipe focuses on simplicity and flavour, allowing the unique taste of cipollini onions to shine through. Whether you're an experienced griller or a beginner, this dish is straightforward and rewarding. Ideal for those looking to add a gourmet touch to their barbecue repertoire, these onions can be served alongside grilled meats, tossed into salads, or enjoyed on their own.

Instructions

Prepare the grill

Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 175°C (350°F).

Peel the onions

Carefully peel the cipollini onions, keeping them whole.

Pro tip: Soak onions in warm water for 10 minutes to ease peeling.

Season the onions

In a large bowl, toss the peeled onions with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Pro tip: Ensure each onion is well-coated to prevent sticking to the grill.

Grill the onions

Place the onions on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until they are tender and caramelized.

Pro tip: Use a grill basket to keep onions from falling through the grates.

Add balsamic vinegar

In the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the onions with balsamic vinegar.

Pro tip: This enhances the sweetness and adds a tangy finish.

Serve

Remove from the grill and serve immediately while warm.

Pro tip: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added colour and flavour.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Ensure onions are evenly coated with oil to prevent sticking.
Keep grill at medium heat for consistent cooking.
Turn onions frequently for even caramelization.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are cipollini onions?

Cipollini onions are small, flat, and sweet Italian onions. They are known for their rich flavour and are excellent when grilled or roasted.

How do you peel cipollini onions easily?

To peel cipollini onions easily, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes before peeling. This softens the skins and makes them easier to remove.

Can I use a different type of onion?

While cipollini onions are preferred for their sweetness, you can substitute with pearl onions or small shallots if needed.

What do grilled cipollini onions pair well with?

They pair well with grilled meats, salads, or can be served as an appetizer with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

How long do grilled cipollini onions last in the fridge?

Grilled cipollini onions can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these grilled cipollini onions hot off the grill to maximize their sweet and smoky flavour. They pair wonderfully with grilled steaks, chicken, or even atop a fresh salad. These onions can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them gently on the grill or in a skillet before serving to maintain their caramelized texture.

Nutrition per serving

110

Calories

Protein

Fat

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