Simple Onion Salad
A crisp, tangy, and incredibly simple onion salad that comes together in minutes. Thinly sliced red onions are tossed in a zesty lemon and cilantro dressing, making it the perfect refreshing side for grilled meats, tacos, or rich curries.
For 4 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the onions
- b.Slice the red onions as thinly as possible into rings or half-moons.
- c.Place the sliced onions in a bowl of ice-cold water for 10 minutes. This helps to make them crispier and reduces their sharp bite.
- d.Drain the onions thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Make the dressing
- b.In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and sugar until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine and serve
- b.Pour the dressing over the drained onions in a larger bowl.
- c.Add the chopped cilantro and toss everything together gently until the onions are well-coated.
- d.Let the salad sit for at least 5 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- e.Serve immediately as a refreshing side.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, use a mandoline slicer to get uniformly thin onion slices.
- 2Soaking the onions in ice water is an optional but highly recommended step to mellow their flavor.
- 3This salad is best served fresh as the onions will lose their crispness over time.
- 4Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and sugar to your personal taste.
- 5Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one day.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
Omit the sugar to reduce calories further. The salad will be tangier but still delicious.
quickQuick
Skip the step of soaking the onions in ice water if you are short on time or enjoy a stronger onion flavor.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Use sweet Vidalia onions instead of red onions for a much milder, less pungent flavor that kids might prefer.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Red onions are a great source of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight inflammation and supports heart health.
Boosts Immunity
The fresh lemon juice provides a good dose of Vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system.
Low Calorie Flavor
This salad adds a burst of fresh, tangy flavor to your meals with very few calories, making it an excellent choice for weight management.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's low in calories, fat-free, and rich in antioxidants from the onions and Vitamin C from the lemon juice. It's a great way to add flavor and nutrients to a meal.