Properly storing green onions can help maintain their freshness, flavor, and texture, allowing you to enjoy their culinary benefits for a longer period. Follow this guide to ensure you store your green onions effectively:
Choose Fresh Green Onions: Visit our pick-your-own patch and select green onions that are firm, crisp, and have vibrant green tops. Avoid ones with wilted, yellowing, or slimy leaves.
Store Unwashed: It's best to store green onions without washing them, as moisture can promote spoilage. If they are dirty, gently wipe off the dirt with a damp cloth or paper towel.
Refrigerator Storage: Store in the refrigerator. There are a few methods to store green onions. These methods help maintain the right level of moisture while providing adequate ventilation.
Method 1:
Place the green onions in a heavy bottomed jar, glass, or vase root-side down. Fill the container of choice with cold or room temperature water, just enough to cover the roots.
Cover the green onions with a plastic Ziploc bag. Clinch the bag slightly around the green onions to store some of the humidity within the bag and zip the bag closed as much as possible.
Transfer the jar to the refrigerator. Replace the water every couple of days.
Method 2:
Alternatively, instead of placing the green onions in a jar, wrap the green onions in a slightly damp paper towel. This provides the humidity needed for proper storage.
Place the wrapped green onions inside a plastic Ziploc bag or storage container; it does not need to be sealed airtight. Remoisten the paper towel if it becomes too dry or too wet.
Utilize Quickly: While green onions can be stored, they are best used fresh for maximum flavor and texture. Try to use them within 1-2 weeks of purchasing.
Freezing Green Onions: You may also choose to freeze them for later use. Chop the green tops and white bulbs separately, spread them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer them to an airtight container or Ziploc freezer bag. Frozen green onions are best used in cooked dishes rather than fresh ones due to the change in texture.
The jar or damp paper towel methods are great for storing various herbs that have delicate leaves and stems. Try these methods with other herbs as well!
Parsley
Cilantro
Basil
Mint
Dill
Chives
Oregano
Thyme
Rosemary
Sage