Seasons/Availability
Green onions are available year-round.
Current Facts
Green onions, also known as scallions, are a bulb vegetable and the immature form of Allium cepa, the species that includes onion, shallot, leek, garlic and chives. The edible parts of green onions are its leaves and white base or stem.
Selection & Storage
When selecting green onions look for bright green tops with firm white bases; avoid any with wilted or yellowed leaves. To store wrap them in a damp paper towel and place in an open plastic bag in the refrigerator where they should keep for up to one week. Green onions can also be frozen after they have been blanched by boiling them for two minutes before cooling quickly in cold water and drying on paper towels. Frozen green onions can be kept for several months in the freezer.
Usage
Green onions can be used raw or cooked and are most commonly chopped as a garnish, added to salads, soups, stir-fries, and sauces. They pair well with fish, poultry, meats, vegetables, rice dishes, and pasta. Green onion oil is also popularly used in Asian cuisine. In addition to their culinary applications green onions have been used medicinally to treat coughs and colds as well as improve digestion. The leaves of green onions contain high levels of vitamin K which helps bone health by aiding in calcium absorption. Additionally they contain vitamins A & C as well as folates and minerals like iron and manganese.
Nutritional Value
Green onions are an excellent source of vitamin K and also contain vitamins A & C as well as folates, iron, and manganese. They are a low calorie food; providing just 16 calories per 100 grams.
Maturing Onions
Onions can be harvested at any stage of maturity depending on the desired flavor profile. Baby onions are picked before bulbs have fully formed while spring onions are typically plucked when bulbs have begun to form but not yet matured. Mature onions are those that have had time to completely develop their characteristic large bulbs and papery skins. These should be firm with no signs of softness or wilting and should store well for several weeks.
