Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions

Ingredients:

• 6 large yellow onions
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare Onions:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Peel the onions and cut them in half, then slice each half into thick rings.

1. Roast Onions:

• Arrange the onion slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are soft and golden brown.

1. Prepare Parmesan Cream Sauce:

• While the onions are roasting, heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the grated Parmesan cheese, thyme, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

1. Combine and Bake:

• Once the onions are roasted, transfer them to a baking dish.
• Pour the Parmesan cream sauce over the onions, making sure they are well coated.
• Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and slightly browned.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Benefits:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Onions are a great source of antioxidants, which help to protect your body from oxidative stress.
2. Heart Health: The combination of onions and olive oil can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
3. Digestive Health: Onions are high in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion.
4. Bone Health: Parmesan cheese provides calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones.

Methods:

• Roasting: This method enhances the natural sweetness of the onions, giving them a caramelized flavor.
• Cream Sauce Preparation: Combining heavy cream with Parmesan cheese creates a rich, savory sauce that complements the sweetness of the roasted onions.
• Baking: Baking the dish allows the flavors to meld together and creates a creamy, cheesy topping.

History:

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions is a dish that draws from several culinary traditions. The roasting of vegetables, particularly onions, has been a staple in various cuisines for centuries, appreciated for how it brings out their natural sweetness. Cream sauces have their roots in French cuisine, where they are used to add richness and depth to dishes. Parmesan cheese, with its origins in Italy, has been a beloved ingredient for centuries, known for its nutty flavor and versatility. Combining these elements results in a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated, reflecting a fusion of different culinary practices.

Conclusion:

Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions is a dish that combines the rich, sweet flavor of caramelized onions with a creamy, cheesy sauce. It offers numerous health benefits, including antioxidants and heart-healthy fats, while also being a comforting and delicious side dish. The combination of roasting and baking methods ensures a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying, making it a perfect addition to any meal.