Look for:
Bright green tops
Firm white bases
Crisp leaves
No slimy areas
No strong unpleasant odor
Avoid bunches that look wilted, yellow, or excessively damaged.
For Spring Onions
Look for firm bulbs and fresh, upright green tops.
The bulb should feel firm rather than soft or mushy.
For Chives
Choose bright green, perky stems.
Avoid chives that are limp, yellowing, or visibly dried out.
How to Store Them
These ingredients are delicate, so proper storage can make a big difference.
Green Onions and Scallions
Trim away any damaged portions and store them in the refrigerator.
One handy method is to wrap them loosely in a slightly damp paper towel and place them in a bag or container.
Another option is storing the roots in a small amount of water and covering the tops loosely, although you’ll want to change the water regularly.
Spring Onions
Keep them refrigerated and use them relatively soon after purchasing for the best texture and flavor.
Chives
Chives are best refrigerated and protected from drying out.
A damp paper towel and a loosely closed container or bag can help keep them fresh.
Can You Freeze Green Onions, Scallions, Spring Onions and Chives?
Yes, but freezing changes the texture.
That’s not usually a problem if you’re planning to cook them afterward.
Frozen green onions, spring onions, or chives can be useful in:
Soups
Sauces
Stir-fries
Casseroles
Egg dishes
For fresh garnishes, however, freshly chopped ingredients are much better.
The crisp texture just doesn’t survive freezing quite the same way.
How to Use Green Onions and Scallions
Green onions are one of those ingredients I absolutely love keeping around because they can rescue a meal at the last minute.
Slice them thinly and add them to:
Fried rice
Ramen
Tacos
Quesadillas
Scrambled eggs
Potato salad
Coleslaw
Dips
Soups
Noodle bowls
Grain bowls
You can also grill or char whole green onions for a smoky side dish.
And the smell when they’re sizzling in a hot pan is incredible!!
How to Use Spring Onions
Because of their more substantial bulb, spring onions can handle cooking beautifully.
Try:
Roasting them
Grilling them
Sautéing them
Adding them to frittatas
Chopping them into salads
Mixing them into sauces
Serving them alongside grilled meats
The bulbs can become beautifully sweet and tender when cooked.
How to Use Chives
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