If you’ve ever purchased green onions, also known as scallions, you’ll know they come bundled together. Often, recipes require just one or two, leaving the rest unused. The challenge is keeping them fresh until next time—nobody wants slimy, wilted scallions.
Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu
The Optimal Way to Store Green Onions
After much trial and error, I’ve discovered the best approach. First, remove any packaging or bands from the scallions and separate them. Discard any that are already slimy. Spread a dry paper towel, place the green onions on it with some space between each, cover with another dry paper towel, and gently roll them into a bundle. Place the bundle in a zip-top bag, press out most of the air, seal, and store in the crisper drawer.
Tip
Avoid washing green onions before storage, as this can shorten their shelf life. Rinse them just before use.
Why This Method is Effective
The primary reason green onions spoil is due to trapped moisture. The ideal preservation strikes a balance with enough moisture to prevent drying but not too much to avoid hastening spoilage. The paper towels assist in managing moisture levels, while the sealed bag prevents desiccation. In my experience, this method keeps green onions fresh for two to three weeks.
Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu
Avoid These Green Onion Storage Tricks
As an experimental scallion enthusiast, I’ve tried various preservation methods, including popular online hacks. Although these were amusing, they didn’t match the effectiveness or practicality of my preferred method. Freezing, for instance, was a disaster due to the ice formation that rendered them soggy. Another method involved placing the roots in water to regrow and trim as needed. While it seemed resourceful, the regrowth was slow, required frequent water changes, and resulted in flavor loss over time. Next time you have excess green onions, consider trying my trusted method for optimal freshness.
