Top 10 Onion Substitutes for All Your Favorite Recipes

Do you love onions but don’t love the way they make your eyes water? Are you allergic to them? Or maybe you’re just out of onions and need a substitution. No problem! There are plenty of substitutes for onion that will work in your favorite recipes. In this blog post, we will list 10 of the best substitutes for onion. So next time you’re in a bind, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases and sometimes recommend products from other sellers at no extra cost you. For more details see my disclosure policy and privacy policy.

10 best substitutes for onions

1. Garlic

Garlic is a close relative of onions and has a similar flavor profile. When used in recipes, garlic can provide the same savory taste as onions without being as strong. Additionally, garlic is less likely to cause eye irritation when chopping.

2. Leeks

Leeks are another member of the onion family and have a milder flavor than most onions. They can be used in recipes that call for onion, or they can be eaten raw in salads or on sandwiches.

3. Shallots

Shallots are a type of onion that has a sweeter, more delicate flavor than other onions. They can be used in recipes that call for onion, or they can be used as a garnish on dishes such as soup or roasted vegetables.

4. Green Onions

Green onions are also known as scallions and have a milder flavor than other onions. They can be used in recipes that call for onion, or they can be eaten raw as a garnish on dishes such as soup or salad.

5. Chives

Chives are a type of onion that has a milder flavor than other onions. They can be used in recipes that call for onion, or they can be eaten raw as a garnish on dishes such as soup or salad.

6. Ramps

Ramps are a type of wild onion that has a stronger flavor than other onions. They should be used sparingly in recipes, or they can be cooked before being added to dishes to mellow out their flavor.

7. Fennel Bulb

Fennel bulb is not technically an onion, but it has a similar flavor profile and can be used as a substitute in many recipes. It is often used in Italian cooking and can be eaten raw or cooked.

8. Cipollini Onion

Cipollini onion is a type of small onion that has a sweet, mellow flavor. It can be used in recipes that call for onion, or it can be eaten raw as a garnish on dishes such as soup or salad.

9. Pearl Onion

Pearl onion is another type of small onion that has a sweet flavor. It can be used in recipes that call for onion, or it can be eaten raw as a garnish on dishes such as soup or salad.

10. Radishes 

Radishes are root vegetables that have a sharp, peppery flavor. They can be used in place of onions in salads or other recipes where their flavor will not be overwhelming.

Dried onion substitutes

Dried onion substitutes can be a lifesaver for those nights when you need to finish up that meal but find yourself out of the necessary ingredients. Fortunately, there are several good alternatives like dried chives, garlic powder, shallots, or green onions.

To make the substitution successful, observe how much the recipe calls for and adjust it accordingly. For example, one teaspoon of dried onions can be replaced by two teaspoons of dried chives or one clove of garlic – and don’t forget to add a pinch of salt!

The great thing about these substitutes is their flavour intensity; they give rushed recipes an inviting aroma while still being simple additions.

Onion powder substitutes

Are you out of onion powder but don’t want to run to the store just yet? Don’t worry, there are a few alternatives that can be used as substitutes. If you have fresh onions on hand, simply dice them up and dehydrate them at low heat in oven or dehydrator. Otherwise, you can use dried minced onion or garlic powder for a similar flavour.

Celery seed is another viable choice; it has a flavour reminiscent of onion but with less intensity. As an entirely different option, shallots can also be substituted for onion powder and may even bring a bit more zest to your dish! Whichever substitute you choose, it is best to start small and gradually add more if needed.

Onion flake substitutes

Onion flake substitutes can be used to add flavour and texture to dishes without the sharpness and aroma of onion. Substitutes range from milder alternatives like spring onions, chives or leeks, to dried options such as onion powder, granulated garlic or even a combination of herbs like oregano and basil.

Each of these substitutes have their own characteristics that are important to consider when determining which will be best suited to the dish. The great thing is that they can all be found in most supermarkets so it doesn’t take much effort to find the right replacement.

Onion salt substitute

If your recipe calls for onion salt but you don’t have it on hand, there are plenty of options to substitute and still bring that same flavour in a pinch. For an oniony taste without the sodium, try finely chopped fresh onions or shallots. Alternatively, one can also use dehydrated onion granules which can be found in many spice aisles at grocery stores and easily measured out with other dry seasonings.

Powdered garlic is another option that works well as a replacement for onion salt and adds subtle nuance to the flavour profile of the dish. Finally, store-bought mixes like French onion dip can also be used. Just remember to account for the additional liquid if substituting it for something dry like onion salt.

Red onion substitute

If you’re in a pinch and don’t have red onions on hand, shallots are perfect for replicating the flavour. Shallots have a mild, onion-y flavour but are less pungent than their cousins. When used in place of red onion, use only half the amount – because shallots tend to be more effective and flavourful compared to red onions.

Minced garlic can also help achieve the strong flavour that a red onion provides, depending on the recipe and application. Alternatively, you could use white or yellow onions – just make sure to adjust the cooking time as they take longer to caramelize and they won’t get as sweet as red onions.

Pearl onion substitute

If you’re looking for a substitute for pearl onions in your favorite recipe, there are many alternatives available. Shallots are the most popular alternative, as they have a similar sweetness and soft texture when cooked. Alternatively, diced white or yellow onion can be used in recipes calling for pearl onions; however, this option tends to produce stronger flavour than shallots and pearl onions.

Red onions can also be considered as a substitute although they will bring a brighter color to the dish. When using diced onion as an alternative to pearl onions, it’s important to sauté them briefly in butter or oil until they’re slightly softened before adding them to the recipe. This will help retain their flavour and texture more similar to that of pearl onions.

Spring onion substitute

When adding spring onions to a dish and you happen to be out of them, there is no need to panic. You can easily substitute these inspired onions with a few ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Chives are the most common alternative – add a tablespoon or two for that unique summery onion flavour.

Or if you want something a bit milder, why not try finely diced celery? Their texture and taste resemble that of spring onions and the crunch factor is always appreciated! If crunch isn’t important, go for green onions instead. While they don’t share an identical flavour, their scent can bring a zesty twist to any dish.

What to use if you are allergic to onion?

If you have an allergy to onion, you may be feeling a bit limited in what you can make since onions are used so widely in cuisine. Thankfully, there are some alternatives that make cooking and flavouring fun and delicious!

Garlic is one of the best substitutes for onion – it has similar flavour notes but is much milder for those with sensitivities. Some other good substitutions include ramp bulbs, which have a garlicky taste but don’t look like garlic; or shallots, which are small, flavour onions.

For the upmost assurance of avoiding onion flavour and irritants, use chives instead. Chives bring similar texture and herbal element but none of the reaction that onion causes for those who are especially sensitive.