Scallions vs. Green Onions

~What’s the Difference?~

Are you a green onion fan? Perhaps you’re more a scallion-enthusiast? So, what’s the difference between Scallions versus Green Onions, anyway?  Interestingly, this scallions vs. green onions query is popular among grocery shoppers and foodies alike. In fact, I am just beginning an online Culinary Arts course at George Brown College and within the first class this exact question was asked. Now, let’s put that confusion to rest. 

In today’s blog, I answer this prevalent question: Scallions vs. Green Onions – what’s the difference? (if any). Additionally, I will share fun kitchen tips and tricks along with meal ideas for using them in your cooking.

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Scallions vs. Green Onions: Are they Different?

The truth is, scallions and green onions are the exact same thing! However, you may observe some grocery stores call them scallions while others call them green onions. Similarly, you may hear some chefs call them scallions and others refer to them as green onions. But just know they are referring to the same vegetable. 

What’s the Flavour of Scallions?

Scallions (aka green onions) are members of the onion family but have a milder flavour. The green stocks are somewhat peppery and a little grassy in taste. Whereas, the lower green onion stem is white, which has a more intense onion flavour. You’ll also notice that there’s a very small bulb on the bottom with roots.

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How to Use Green Onions in Cooking?

Scallions (aka green onions) can be eaten raw or they can be cooked. Since they have a mild onion taste, they can make a perfect substitute for chopped onions and can bring out onion flavours already present in a dish (see meal ideas below). 

Asian cooking often uses green onions as a garnish for dishes. In fact, green onions as a garnish is the most common use for them in the kitchen. Admirably, they add a pretty punch of colour and an appetizing mild onion flavour. Similarly, for visual interest and a flavour-boost, try slicing the white bottoms horizontally and throwing them in a stir-fry or some fried rice. Finally, you can even try roasting green onions in the oven with some oil and salt. They have a sweet and robust flavour that can be used as a side dish or topping.

Meal Ideas Using Green Onions

Potato Leek Soup

Veggie and Cheese Egg Casserole

Saucy Sriracha and Honey Drumsticks

Garlic Ricotta Dip with Roasted Tomatoes

Red Curry Carrot & Lentil Soup

Cashew Chicken

Topping for Shrimp & Tofu Green Curry

Rainbow Bean Salad

Zesty Fish Tacos

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How to Store Green Onions or Scallions:

There are different ways you can store green onions in the fridge; however, my favourite way is to store them in a little water on the windowsill. Astonishingly, this allows the green onion/scallion to re-sprout.

To Re-Sprout Green Onions

1. Bring home Scallions from grocery store and cut off the top 4-5 inches of the green stems. Clean and chop and store towel-dried in an air-tight container in the fridge. These are the perfect garnish ready to go! 
2. For the bottom half of the stocks, place in a small glass jar so the stems are standing about an inch above the rim. 
3. Fill the bottom of the glass with water to cover the roots.
4. Finally, place by a window that gets sunlight and watch them grow. Cut off fresh green onions when you need them in your home-cooked meals! 
5. NOTE: Be sure to change the water in the jar when needed. 

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Are Green Onions Low FODMAP?

If you are following a digestive diet, like the Low FODMAP diet for managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), you will be intrigued to know you can enjoy the green parts of scallions or green onions. However, the white bottoms are high in FODMAPs or sugars that are difficult for some to digest. Be sure to work with a Registered Dietitian trained in FODMAPs (like us!) when adjusting your diet for digestive woes (click here to work with one of our dietitians for your digestion). 

How about Spring Onions?

Now that you know green onions and scallions are in fact the same, it’s time to differentiate from a similar onion relative – the spring onion! Spring onions are NOT the same as scallions or green onions. In fact, the bulb of a spring onion is much larger, compared to the small, not-so-bulbous scallion. The bulb of a spring onion actually looks like a mini onion. However, spring onions have a slightly stronger onion flavour than scallions but are still milder than a regular onion. 

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Bottom Line:

The food debate or the long-standing question is pervasive: Scallions vs. Green Onions – what’s the difference? The truth is, scallions and green onions are the exact same thing! So don’t be misled when one word is used at some grocery stores or used interchangeably by some cooks or restaurant menus. You can find scallions all-year-round in the grocery store.  You can also keep them in water at your home so they grow again for future meals. However, be sure to buy them when they are bright green and with firm green stems.  

Now’s your turn. Did you know that green onions and scallions are the same thing? What are your favourite ways to include them in your cooking?