The onion is widely used in the cuisine of many countries, especially as a basic ingredient in many recipes. It is often used as an unomate to add taste and flavor to dishes, but it can also be consumed raw or cooked. The onion is rich in nutrients, in particular in vitamins A, C and E, potassium and fiber. There are many varieties of onions, each with its own characteristics of taste and texture. White and yellow onions are the most common and are generally used in a wide variety of dishes. Red onions are softer and sweeter and are often used in salads and sandwiches. Violet onions have a more pronounced flavor and are often used in meat dishes.