Wholesome Husband has been known to steal pieces of raw onion when I’m preparing dinner. He loves onions that much. I guess it’s worth it to him even though he doesn’t get any smooches after that for the whole night. Onion breath – no thanks.
So when I saw these, I knew I had to make them.
Baked Onion Rings
Adapted from How Sweet It Is
4 large vidalia onions
2 quarts of buttermilk
8 egg whites
2 cups medium ground cornmeal
2 cups panko bread crumbs
1 cup whole wheat flour
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons pepper
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Directions:
1. 12-24 hours ahead of time, slice onions into 1/2-inch thick rings. Season the onion rings with 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper each. Place in a baking dish and pour buttermilk over top. Let soak for 12-24 hours.
2. When ready to bake, heat oven to 450 degrees F. In a small bowl, whisk egg whites. In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour and panko with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper and 1 teaspoon paprika. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the wire rack with non-stick spray.
3. Remove each onion ring from the buttermilk and dip in egg whites. Immediately dip in the breadcrumb mixture and press to coat. If bread crumbs won’t adhere, dip in egg whites and try again. Lay each ring on the wire rack. When all rings are ready, give each a quick spritz with olive oil or non-stick spray.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, then gently flip with tongs and spray again with olive oil or non-stick spray. Bake for 10 minutes more. Makes a lot of onion rings – depends on how big your onion are!
Nutrition Notes: Vidalia onions are also known as sweet onions. They are a bit milder than red, yellow or white onions. Check out the nutritional content of one vidalia onion. Lots of potassium and fiber!
Taste Test: So good! Definitely gives its fried counterparts a run for their money! Although a little time consuming, these are a great addition to any summer meal and MUCH healthier too. Can I get an Amen? 
