Skip to main content

Grilled Red Pearl Onions

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These grilled red pearl onions are a simple yet sophisticated vegan side dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of the allium family. By cooking them whole in their skins, the centres steam to a buttery consistency while the outer layers take on a wonderful smoky depth from the barbecue. It is a minimalist approach to seasonal cooking that requires very little preparation but delivers a complex, savoury flavour profile.

Perfect for summer entertaining, this healthy vegetable dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or plant-based mains. Because they can be cooked alongside your other dishes, they are an efficient addition to any outdoor menu. Serve them warm with a pinch of flaky sea salt for a rustic appetiser that guests will love to squeeze and eat by hand.

In this article:

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Grilled Red Pearl Onions

  • 450g red pearl onions, unpeeled

  • Salt, to taste

How to make Grilled Red Pearl Onions

Prepare barbecue grill (medium heat). Place onions on the grill and cover. Grill until onions are very tender when pierced with a skewer, about 15 minutes. Serve with salt. To pop the onion out of its papery skin, pick it up by the root end and squeeze.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.