All About Green onion
Your complete guide to green onion - discover how to store it properly, identify when it's gone bad, and find the best substitutes for your recipes.
How Long Does Green onion Last?
Storage times and freshness tips for green onion in different conditions.
Safety first: This guide provides general information. When in doubt, throw it out! Trust your senses and err on the side of caution. If something smells, looks, or tastes off, don't consume it.
Freezer (Chopped)3-4 months (for best quality); safe indefinitely at 0°F (-18°C)
Signs of Spoilage
Severe freezer burn (dry, discolored spots), strong off-odor when thawed, completely mushy or slimy texture (beyond normal thawing softness), excessive ice crystals indicating poor sealing.
How to Check
Visual: Look for signs of freezer burn, which appears as dry, grayish, or brownish patches. While safe to eat, the quality will be compromised. Smell: A strong, unpleasant, or 'freezer-burnt' smell upon thawing indicates a loss of quality. Texture (after thawing): Frozen and thawed green onions will be much softer than fresh but should not be completely mushy or slimy.
Storage Tips
Wash and dry green onions thoroughly before chopping. Spread the chopped pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for 1-2 hours. Transfer the frozen pieces to an airtight freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Do not thaw before using; add directly to cooked dishes.
Raw in Fridge (Standard Wrapped)5-10 days
Signs of Spoilage
Limpness, sliminess, yellowing or browning of the green tops, mushy white ends, unpleasant or pungent odor, mold growth.
How to Check
Visual: Look for bright green color and firm white ends. Discard if you see yellow, brown, black spots, or a slimy film. Touch: Fresh green onions are crisp and firm. If they feel soft, rubbery, or slimy, they are likely spoiled. Smell: Fresh green onions have a mild, fresh onion scent. A strong, sour, or unpleasant smell indicates spoilage.
Storage Tips
Wrap green onions in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag or airtight container before refrigerating. This helps maintain moisture and extends freshness. Avoid washing until ready to use.
Raw in Fridge (Water-Rooted)1-2 weeks (and can regrow)
Signs of Spoilage
Water becomes cloudy or slimy, roots turn dark and mushy, green tops become limp, yellow, or develop mold, off-odor from the water or onions.
How to Check
Visual: Check the clarity of the water; it should remain relatively clear. Observe the roots for firmness and healthy color. Look for any mold on the green tops or white ends. Touch: The green tops should remain firm. If they are slimy or very soft, discard. Smell: If the water or onions develop a strong, sour, or unpleasant odor, they are spoiling.
Storage Tips
Trim the roots slightly and place the white ends into about an inch of water in a glass or jar. Store in the refrigerator. Change the water every 1-2 days to prevent bacterial growth and keep them fresh. You can trim and use the green tops as needed, and they will continue to regrow.