I reciently received a house plant that has what looks like onions (roots) on the top of the soil and green spikey leaves. Not sure if it is palm, fern or what type of plant it is or how to water it. Any help would be greatly appreciated

Any chance of sending a picture (derek@horticulturist.com) I should be able to give you a name then, but can't get a good picture from your description.
In any case, water as you always should for plants in pots - soak soil thoroughly (careful to get it all) then hold off before the next soak when the top inch or so has dried. Derek