The Only Way You Should Store Green Onions, According to an Expert

My husband loves green onions—also known as scallions—on salads and salmon, but sometimes forgets about them in the fridge. So, I’ll occasionally find a bunch of wilted, slimy ones stuck in the back of the crisper drawer. 

The best way to keep green onions fresh depends on how quickly you plan to use them, says Ashley Rawl, Vice President of Sales, Marketing, and Product Development at WP Rawl, a family-owned and operated farm specializing in leafy greens and mixed vegetables.

How To Store Green Onions

If the green onions will be used within a week, Rawl says it’s best to wrap them in a damp paper towel and seal them inside a zip-top or reusable bag. Then, she advises placing them in the refrigerator’s crisper drawer to maximize freshness.

To get them to last a little longer, Rawl says to treat them similar to flowers and store them in water. “Grab a cup or a mason jar and fill it with about 2 inches of water,” she suggests. “Place the onion roots down in the jar and store upright on a fridge shelf.” Green onions can last up to two weeks if stored that way.

More Tips for Keeping Green Onions Fresh

You might be tempted to keep your green onions on the counter when you bring them home from the store, but Rawl says they should always stay chilled to keep them fresh. “The refrigerator prevents any humidity that could cause them to wilt,” Rawl explains. “Depending on your storage choice, they should either be placed in the crisper drawer or on a shelf [in the fridge].”

Whether you’re storing them in a bag or a glass of water, check them regularly for signs that they’re aging, such as losing their brightness, or if they start to feel limp. “If you see any part of the green onion starting to wilt, simply trim that part off, but always leave the roots intact.”