(function() {
document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() {
var componentMetadata = JSON.parse('\x7b\x22componentName\x22\x3a\x22ActionToolbar_59e5fa31-dc57-46ea-93d1-265650a760f0\x22,\x22deferOptions\x22\x3a\x7b\x22deferComponent\x22\x3atrue,\x22deferType\x22\x3a\x22OnDemand\x22,\x22deferId\x22\x3a\x22rfc7eaa73e5f6454881aa4bd95ef66023\x22,\x22deferredContainerId\x22\x3a\x22\x2ffloatingActionToolbar\x2ffloatingActionToolbar_interop\x22,\x22deferredContainerView\x22\x3a\x22InteropDeferWrapper\x22\x7d,\x22viewName\x22\x3a\x22ActionToolbar\x22\x7d');
var configuration = {"contentId":"936cca4a-1190-49de-a018-aee80ff5f3f6","toolbarSettings":{"id":"59e5fa31-dc57-46ea-93d1-265650a760f0","regAction":"FAVORITE","eSourceCode":11275,"namePassedToEvents":"ArticleStandardLongFormToolbar","buttons":[{"addFavoriteErrorMessage":"Sorry, something went wrong. Please save again.","removeFavoriteErrorMessage":"Error occurred while removing from favorites","regAction":"FAVORITE","eSourceCode":11275,"isCurrentUserAnonymous":false,"isFavoriteItem":false,"id":"16a29701-2b75-4d9a-aa9c-860376da50d7","allowedForAnonymousUsers":false,"type":"Favorite","displayName":"Save","toggleDisplayName":"Saved","namePassedToEvents":"Favorite","cssClassName":"atButtonFavorite","privacyOptOutMessage":"\u003cdiv class=\u0027privacyMessage\u0027\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThis feature is not available with your current cookie settings.\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can \u003ca href=\u0027#\u0027 data-show-preference-center=\u00271\u0027\u003eupdate your privacy settings\u003c/a\u003e to enable this content. Please enable “Functional Cookies” to use this feature.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e","showPrivacyOptOutMessage":false},{"providerName":"pinterest","providerNamePassedToEvents":"Pinterest","shareUrlFormat":"//pinterest.com/pin/create/link/?url={0}","id":"c18cf08e-e436-4cd0-a180-1bafb15369a6","allowedForAnonymousUsers":true,"type":"Social","displayName":"Pinterest","toggleDisplayName":"","namePassedToEvents":"Pinterest","cssClassName":"atButtonPinterest","privacyOptOutMessage":"\u003cdiv class=\u0027privacyMessage\u0027\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThis feature is not available with your current cookie settings.\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can \u003ca href=\u0027#\u0027 data-show-preference-center=\u00271\u0027\u003eupdate your privacy settings\u003c/a\u003e to enable this content. Please enable “Functional Cookies” to use this feature.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e","showPrivacyOptOutMessage":false},{"templateId":"13bdd311-4300-4fb8-9d78-9cbaf98f5578","dialogHeading":"Email Article","emailCode":"BC_ContentEmail","dialogSettings":{"cancelButtonText":"Cancel","copyToSenderLabel":"Send a Copy to Myself","emailAddressesLabel":"* Email Address(es)","emailInstructionText":"Separate email addresses with commas","fromText":"From:","privacyPolicyText":"\u003cp\u003e\u0026copy;2025 General Mills, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This information will only be used to send an email to your friend(s) and will not be saved. Please read our \u003ca rel=\u0022noopener noreferrer\u0022 rel=\u0022noopener noreferrer\u0022 href=\u0022http://www.generalmills.com/company/privacy-policies/privacy-policy-us\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 shape=\u0022rect\u0022\u003ePrivacy Policy\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e","requiredFieldText":"* Required","sendButtonText":"Send","senderEmailAddressLabel":"* Your Email Address","senderFirstNameLabel":"* Your First Name","sendToText":"Send To:"},"id":"be9422a3-85a8-4c31-86f5-e171255bb89d","allowedForAnonymousUsers":true,"type":"Email","displayName":"Email","toggleDisplayName":"","namePassedToEvents":"Email","cssClassName":"atButtonEmail","privacyOptOutMessage":"\u003cdiv class=\u0027privacyMessage\u0027\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThis feature is not available with your current cookie settings.\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can \u003ca href=\u0027#\u0027 data-show-preference-center=\u00271\u0027\u003eupdate your privacy settings\u003c/a\u003e to enable this content. Please enable “Functional Cookies” to use this feature.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e","showPrivacyOptOutMessage":false},{"providerName":"facebook","providerNamePassedToEvents":"Facebook","shareUrlFormat":"//facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u={0}","id":"6c3f442d-6ffe-460f-8360-b02b122d326c","allowedForAnonymousUsers":true,"type":"Social","displayName":"Facebook","toggleDisplayName":"","namePassedToEvents":"Facebook","cssClassName":"atButtonFacebook","privacyOptOutMessage":"\u003cdiv class=\u0027privacyMessage\u0027\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThis feature is not available with your current cookie settings.\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can \u003ca href=\u0027#\u0027 data-show-preference-center=\u00271\u0027\u003eupdate your privacy settings\u003c/a\u003e to enable this content. Please enable “Functional Cookies” to use this feature.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e","showPrivacyOptOutMessage":false},{"layoutParameter":"p%3d1","id":"de022929-4416-4bc9-ab3c-ae5711d562bf","allowedForAnonymousUsers":true,"type":"Print","displayName":"Print","toggleDisplayName":"","namePassedToEvents":"Print","cssClassName":"atButtonPrint","privacyOptOutMessage":"\u003cdiv class=\u0027privacyMessage\u0027\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThis feature is not available with your current cookie settings.\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can \u003ca href=\u0027#\u0027 data-show-preference-center=\u00271\u0027\u003eupdate your privacy settings\u003c/a\u003e to enable this content. Please enable “Functional Cookies” to use this feature.\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003c/div\u003e","showPrivacyOptOutMessage":false}],"isSticky":true},"userSettings":{"isCurrentUserAnonymous":true,"isFavoriteItem":false},"pageAttributes":{"url":"https%3a%2f%2fwww.bettycrocker.com%2fhow-to%2fingredients-and-preparation%2fstoring-green-onions","contentId":"936cca4a-1190-49de-a018-aee80ff5f3f6"},"recaptchaPublicKey":"6LfU_icUAAAAALSqSjRg5hqZwbPr1b8k-_80a_S_"};
var moduleName = 'actionToolbar';
var isVueModule = true;
GeneralMills.PandoSites.RegisterControlInstance(moduleName, configuration, componentMetadata, isVueModule)
});
})();
Green onions (also known as scallions) are a fantastic way to add freshness, crunch, and a subtle hint of sharpness to your favorite dishes. Whether you're adding them to soups, salads, stir-fries, or garnishing a savory roast, these delicate stalks often play a starring role.
However, if you’ve ever tried to store green onions, you know they can quickly wilt or go bad. But don’t worry! With a few simple tricks, you can extend the life of your green onions, reduce waste, and keep them fresh for much longer. In this guide, we'll cover the best methods for keeping green onions fresh and ensuring they’re always ready to elevate your homemade meals.
What Are Green Onions?
Physical Characteristics
- Leaves: The most prominent feature is their long, slender, hollow, and tube-like leaves. These leaves are typically dark green, though the color can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions. They are the part primarily used in cooking.
- Bulb: Unlike mature onions, green onions have a small, underdeveloped bulb at the base. This bulb is usually white or pale green and is often milder in flavor than the leaves.
- Roots: They are often sold with an intact but small root system at the base.
Flavor and Aroma
- Mild but Pungent Flavor: Green onions possess a mild delicate flavor compared to mature onions. The white bulb portion tends to be even milder than the green leaves.
Nutritional Aspects
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Green onions are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and various minerals like potassium.
- Low in Calories: They are relatively low in calories, making them an easy addition to many dishes.
The joy and challenge of scallions is in their unique shape and texture, and keeping them fresh will help preserve their taste and nutritional value. If you don't store them right, they can get limp and lose their flavor fast. So, let's dive in deeper to show you how to take care of your fresh green spring onions.
Storage Methods
Fridge Storage
Storing green onions in the fridge is the most straightforward method and ideal for regular use. Using this method, your green onions should stay fresh for about a week. Remember to check them before using them and if they do go bad, discard the affected onions to prevent cross-contamination in the fridge.
Step 1: Wash and Dry
Start by giving your green onions a good rinse under cold water. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris.
Step 2: Wrap in Paper Towels
Lay the green onions flat on a dry paper towel and gently roll them up. This helps absorb any excess moisture, which can otherwise promote mold growth. For an eco-friendly alternative, reusable cloths work well too!
Step 3: Store in an Airtight Bag
After wrapping, place the onions in a resealable plastic or reusable silicone bag. Keeping them in an airtight environment helps maintain their crispness. Place the bag into your refrigerator’s crisper drawer, which regulates humidity levels to keep produce fresh.
Water Method
If you want to keep your green onions fresh for an extended period (up to two weeks), the water method is your best bet. Alternatively, you can keep the jar of green onions on your kitchen counter, but they will only last about 5-7 days at room temperature. As always, monitor for any signs of decay and refresh the water frequently.
Step 1: Trim the Roots
Before placing the onions in water, trim any dried or damaged sections from the root ends to promote better water absorption.
Step 2: Place in a Clean Jar with Water
Fill a clean glass or jar with about an inch of cold water and place the trimmed onions root-side down. Only the roots and a small portion of the white stalk should be submerged to avoid sogginess.
Step 3: Cover and Store in the Fridge
Loosely cover the green tops with plastic wrap or a bag to retain moisture and store the jar in the fridge. Ensure there's air circulation to prevent mold growth. Be sure to change the water every 2-3 days for optimal freshness and food safety.
Freezing: The Long-Term Storage Solution
Freezing is a fantastic way to store green onions if you don’t plan to use them right away.
Step 1: Wash and Slice
Just as with other produce, begin by washing your green onions thoroughly. Pat them dry and slice them to your preferred size—either small pieces for garnishes or larger sections for cooking.
Step 2: Flash Freeze
Lay your sliced green onions on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours to flash-freeze them. This prevents them from sticking together during long-term storage.
Step 3: Transfer to Freezer Bags
Once frozen, transfer your onions into labeled, airtight freezer bags. Mark the date and try to use them within three months for the best taste and quality.
Pro Tip: Frozen green onions won’t have the same crisp texture, but they are perfect for soups and other blended dishes!
Regrow Your Green Onions
Don't toss your green onion roots, did you know you can regrow them? Re-growing green onions is a sustainable way to always have fresh scallions on hand and reduce waste.
Step 1: Submerge the Roots
After using the green tops, place the white root ends in a shallow dish of water. Position the dish in a sunny windowsill.
Step 2: Change the Water Daily
Make sure to change the water daily to prevent bacterial growth. In no time, the green tops will regrow, and you'll have fresh onions to snip and use as needed. You can repeat this process multiple times! We don't recommend using the white bottoms of the scallions after they've been in water for several days, but you'll find their fresh new green sprigs are crisp and flavorful.
Culinary Uses
- Garnish: Frequently used as a fresh garnish for soups, salads, and various dishes.
- Flavoring Agent: Adds a subtle onion flavor to stir-fries, sauces, and other cooked dishes.
- Versatile: Can be chopped, sliced, or used whole depending on the recipe.
Green Onion Recipes
Once you've mastered storing green onions, you’ll always have them ready to add a fresh burst of flavor to your homemade meals. Here are a few delightful Betty Crocker recipes you can try:
With these easy storage methods, you can always have fresh green onions handy for cooking or garnishing. Whether you freeze them for long-term use, regrow them on your windowsill, or simply keep them fresh in the fridge, you’re prepared to enjoy this vibrant ingredient in all your favorite dishes.
(function() {
document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() {
var componentMetadata = JSON.parse('\x7b\x22componentName\x22\x3a\x22NewsletterCTA_b9911a56-3a0d-4b1c-8521-df6c10ce048a\x22,\x22deferOptions\x22\x3a\x7b\x22deferComponent\x22\x3atrue,\x22deferType\x22\x3a\x22OnDemand\x22,\x22deferId\x22\x3a\x22ra7987a7a434b451c83dff5c4ca14f8fa\x22,\x22deferredContainerId\x22\x3a\x22\x2fprimaryColumn\x2finteropInlineNewsletterCta\x22,\x22deferredContainerView\x22\x3a\x22InteropDeferWrapper\x22\x7d,\x22viewName\x22\x3a\x22NewsletterCTA\x22\x7d');
var configuration = {"unsubscribedNewsletters":[{"listId":"1e34a555-89d1-45f0-8f07-b3ae6b01c03c","thumbnailImageUrl":"/-/media/GMI/Core-Sites/BC/Images/Shared/myaccount/newsletters/BC_Thumb157x157.png?sc_lang=en","previewUrl":"https://morpheus3.idpk.net/email_sends/9111/preview","name":"Betty\u0027s Email","isPromo":false}],"settings":{"anonymousCopy":"Recipe inspiration for all the celebrations in your life!","anonymousDescriptionCopy":"Get the latest recipes delivered right to your inbox, for FREE! If you aren\u0027t satisfied, you can unsubscribe at any time.","anonymousThankYouCopy":"\u003cp\u003eThanks! Your first email is on its way.\u003c/p\u003e\n","anonymousThankYouDescriptionCopy":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNow that you\u0026rsquo;re signed up, create an account on BettyCrocker.com to save your favorite recipes, learn more about special promotions and get inspired through Betty\u0026rsquo;s expert tips.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e","anonymousButtonText":"Sign up now","anonymousEmailInvalidErrorText":"Please enter a valid email address.","anonymousSubscribeErrorText":"We encountered an error while signing you up. Please try again.","anonymousEmailAddressPlaceholderText":"Enter your email address","anonymousEmailAddressLabel":"Email Address","anonymousLegalCopy":"By signing up, you accept our\u0026nbsp;\u003ca rel=\u0022noopener noreferrer\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.generalmills.com/privacy-security/us-english-privacy-policy\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003e\u003cspan style=\u0022text-decoration: underline;\u0022\u003ePrivacy Policy\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;and agree that your information may be used across our\u0026nbsp;\u003ca rel=\u0022noopener noreferrer\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.generalmills.com/food-we-make/brands\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022\u003e\u003cspan style=\u0022text-decoration: underline;\u0022\u003efamily of brands\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/a\u003e","requiredFieldText":"","backgroundColor":"#E60000","accentColor":"","registrationUrl":"/register/reg-fp?RegAction=SUBSCRIBERUPGRADE\u0026esrc=11275\u0026returnUrl=%2fhow-to%2fingredients-and-preparation%2fstoring-green-onions","registrationLinkText":"Join free!","enableExpandedFields":false,"hideForSessionCookieExpiration":0,"ctaType":"StandardAnonymous","location":"Inline","userState":"Anonymous","sourceCodeOverride":0}};
var moduleName = 'newsletterCta';
var isVueModule = true;
GeneralMills.PandoSites.RegisterControlInstance(moduleName, configuration, componentMetadata, isVueModule)
});
})();