Balsamic Glazed Pearl Onions - Honest Cooking Recipe (2024)

Balsamic glazed pearl onions are a great addition to your next co*cktail creation, and works just as well as a cheese board accoutrement.

Not only do these Balsamic-Glazed Pearl Onions make for the perfect accent to any cheese platter (or co*cktail), they also make for a great host/hostess gift. So whether you’re party thrower or a party goer – these zingy little firecrackers have a place in any entertaining setting.

Here’s my thought: Everyone loves small bites, everyone loves the ease of eating in a party situation (wine glass + full plate + needing fork +standing up = anyone uncomfortable yet!?) … aaand most importantly the host loves having as little dishes as possible to stay on top of during/after the festivities. Ah!

I propose that we deconstruct the situation – literally. We’re making the cheese platter hand-held, portable and even more delicious than anyone could arrange on their own paper plate. If that’s not sounding like equal opportunity joy in the holiday party going/entertaining realm, than I don’t know what could.

So get yourself armed with some quality olives, pickled accoutrements, seasonal fruits, meats and cheese…not to mention some simple yet chic wooden co*cktail picks…and you’re about to blow some party minds.

Anything you might find on a typical cheese platter – savory items such as olives, cornichons, pickled peppers. Charcuterie meats such as prosciutto and soppressata. Sweet elements such as blueberries, persimmons, and your homemade balsamic onions. And of course a variety of cheeses to really make all the flavors come together.

Cut your selection of cheeses into small bite sized cubes, arrange on a co*cktail pick with different combinations of savory and sweet items. Get playful by wrapping the charcuterie meats around olives and/or fruits. You really can’t mess this combo up – really!

But first…we make onions sing…in balsamic.

1. Boil the Onions:

Begin by boiling the pearl onions. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the pearl onions and let them boil for 3 minutes.

2. Ice Bath:

After boiling, remove the onions with a slotted spoon and immediately submerge them into a bowl of ice water. This will stop the cooking process and cool the onions down, making them easier to peel.

3. Peel the Onions:

Once the onions are cool to the touch, peel off their skins.

4. Sauté the Onions:

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the peeled onions and sauté them until they are slightly golden. This should take about 5 minutes.

5. Add Balsamic and Water:

Pour the balsamic vinegar and water into the pan with the onions. Reduce the heat to low and let the onions simmer for 15 minutes. This will allow the onions to absorb the flavors of the balsamic and soften further.

Store:

After the onions have finished simmering, place them along with any remaining liquid into a clean, sealable jar. Store the jar in the refrigerator. The onions will keep for up to 1 week.

Notes:

These balsamic glazed pearl onions are a great addition to any dish. They can be served as a side, added to salads, or used as a garnish. The leftover balsamic glaze in the jar can also be used as a dressing or sauce. Enjoy!

Print