True foodies know that onions are a must-have in your kitchen for adding a burst of flavor to dishes. These versatile vegetables can transform the simplest ingredients into an incredible dish, whether it’s the comforting warmth of a French onion soup, the tangy kick in fresh salsa, or the sweet caramelization on a gourmet pizza. But not all onions are created equal. Choosing the right type can be the secret ingredient to elevating your meals.

Let’s discover which varieties best suit your culinary creations.

The Bold Red Onion

Red onions, with their vibrant color and sharp, slightly sweet flavor, are perfect for adding a pop of color and a zesty edge to raw food preparations. Think salads, pickles, sandwiches, and tacos. Their crisp texture and mild flavor make them an excellent choice for dishes where you want the onion to complement rather than dominate. For a quick meal, try marinating slices in vinegar and lime juice to soften their bite, making them a delicious addition to your next taco night.

The Classic Yellow Onion

Yellow onions are the all-rounder of the onion family, known for their perfect balance of astringency and sweet notes. They’re the go-to for cooking, as their flavor develops a rich, caramelized depth when sautéed, roasted, or grilled. From the base of a hearty stew or soup to the topping on a classic pizza, yellow onions are your best bet for cooking. Their ability to melt into dishes makes them indispensable in the kitchen.

The Crisp White Onion

White onions have a sharp and clean flavor and are a staple in Latin American and Mexican cuisine. They’re best used in salsas, ceviches, and guacamole, where their crispiness and slightly milder flavor can shine through without overwhelming other ingredients. White onions are also ideal for quick-cooking dishes, as they retain their crunch and inject a fresh burst of flavor into any meal.

Sweet Onions

Sweet onions, like Vidalia’s or Walla Wallas, have a lower sulfur content, making them less pungent and ideal for eating raw or lightly cooked. Their natural sweetness comes to the forefront when caramelized. They’re perfect for adding a subtle sweetness to sandwiches and salads or even as a topping on grilled meats.

Choosing the right onion can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable. Experiment with these varieties in your recipes and watch as they transform your meals with their unique flavors and textures.