The technique for this pancake is similar to that for a Dutch baby or German pancake, but the savory onion and goat cheese combination is a surprise for those who think of pancakes as breakfast food only. Serve with a mixed green salad for a light supper or as a side dish with grilled or roasted meat.

Makes 4 main-dish servings or 8 side-dish servings

ACTIVE TIME: 30 minutes

TOTAL TIME: 40 minutes

EASE OF PREPARATION: Easy

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
2 large red onions, sliced (see Kitchen Tip)
2 tablespoons water
2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup low-fat milk
2 large eggs
2 large egg whites
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
1 cup balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons honey

1. Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron or ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium, add onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and light golden brown, 15 to 20 minutes.
Stir in water and thyme, scraping up any browned bits.
2. Meanwhile, position rack in middle of oven; preheat to 450°F.
3. Blend flour, milk, eggs, egg whites, canola oil, sugar, salt and pepper in a blender until smooth. Pour the batter over the onions. Sprinkle with cheese.
4. Bake the pancake until puffed and golden, about 15 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, combine vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until syrupy and reduced to 1/3 cup, 12 to 15 minutes. (Watch carefully during the last few minutes to prevent burning.) Cut the pancake into wedges and serve immediately with the balsamic syrup.

NUTRITION INFORMATION: Per main-dish serving: 295 calories; 12 g fat (3 g sat, 6 g mono); 112 mg cholesterol; 38 g carbohydrate; 11 g protein; 2 g fiber; 269 mg sodium; 247 mg potassium.
Nutrition bonus: Selenium (17% daily value).
2 1/2 Carbohydrate Servings
Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 medium-fat meat, 1 fat

TIP: Kitchen Tip: Onions contain a volatile compound called lachrymator that reacts with the fluid in your eyes and makes them water. To chop them without crying, try wearing goggles, burning a candle nearby or cutting them under cold water. To mellow the bite of a raw onion, soak it for an hour in 1 cup cold water, 1/4 cup vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon salt and then rinse thoroughly.

This was a surprise hit with my husband. The onions cooked until tender and sweet, complemented with the fresh tangy goat cheese and balsamic/honey syrup. The eggs didn't puff, but it didn't seem to matter. Excellent warmed up in the microwave, too.

Chris, Los Altos, CA