Do you have a big bunch of green onions that are left over from your last grocery haul? Are all those bright, vibrant green tops staring up at you, and now you don’t know what to do with them? We’ve all been there! Thankfully, there’s no need to worry – storing your excess green onions is easy and straightforward.
We are here to teach you the best ways for storing green onions so that they last and maintain their quality. Let’s take a look at why storage matters when it comes to green onions, new approaches and strategies for optimal storage, and finish off with some helpful tips and tricks.
How to Store Green Onions?
5 Best Ways to Store Green Onions!
There are different ways to store green onions, but some are more effective than others. Here are a few of the best ways to store green onions:
Refrigerating Green Onions
The best way to store green onions is in the refrigerator. Place them in a resealable plastic bag with some paper towels. This will help absorb any excess moisture and prevent them from wilting. Make sure there is enough air flow so that the green onions don’t dry out, but keep the bag closed tightly so that no other items in your refrigerator get oniony odors. You can also wrap the green onions in a damp paper towel and place them in an open container in the refrigerator for added protection against drying out.
Freezing Green Onions
You can also freeze your green onions, though this method is not ideal if you plan on eating them raw or using them as a garnish. To freeze green onions, chop them up into small pieces (not slicing thin) and put them into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag before placing it into the freezer. When you’re ready to use your frozen green onions, thawing will take about 15 minutes before they are ready for cooking!
Storing Green Onions Out of Refrigeration
If you need to store your green onions out of refrigeration, place them in a cool location away from direct sunlight and sources of heat like stovetops and radiators. Place the onion in a vase with water (like cut flowers!) or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap (not too tight—you want some ventilation) and store it at room temperature for up to two weeks before needing to be used or refrigerated/frozen.
Drying Green Onions
If you’re looking for a more long-term storage option, try drying your green onions. To dry them, cut into smaller pieces and spread evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the green onions are dried and crispy. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container for up to six months!
Pickling Green Onions
If you’d like to get creative with your storage methods, why not try pickling your green onions? This method is perfect if you want to create a flavorful topping for salads or sandwiches. To pickle your green onions, slice them into small pieces and place in a jar with some vinegar, water, salt, sugar (optional), and other herbs/spices of your choice. Seal the lid tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks before using!
Tips & Tricks for Storing Green Onions
- Always make sure your green onions are clean and dry before storing. Any excess moisture can increase the chance of bacteria growth and spoilage.
- If you’re not able to use the entire bunch of green onions in one go, chop them into usable pieces and freeze or refrigerate the rest.
- Store in cool, dry locations away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
- Change out the paper towels or damp cloths you’ve used to wrap your green onions every few days to prevent bacterial growth.
- If freezing, make sure to label the container with the date so you know how long they’ve been stored.
- Avoid storing green onions near any foods that have a strong smell, as the oniony odor could transfer over to them.
FAQS
1. Do fresh green onions need to be refrigerated?
Yes, fresh green onions should be refrigerated in a resealable plastic bag with some paper towels to absorb any excess moisture and prevent wilting.
2. Should you store green onions in water?
Yes, you can store your green onions in a vase with water, like cut flowers. Make sure to change the water every few days so it doesn’t become stagnant.
3. How long do green onions stay fresh in the fridge?
If stored properly in the refrigerator, green onions can stay fresh for up to two weeks. However, once they start to show signs of wilting or darken in color they should be used as soon as possible.
4. Should you wash green onions before storing?
No, it is not necessary to wash green onions before storing. Washing can cause them to spoil faster and thus reduce their shelf life.
Conclusion:
Green onions are versatile vegetables that can be stored either refrigerated, frozen or outside of refrigeration depending on how long they need to last and what type of dish they are being used for. With proper storage techniques, you can make sure your green onions stay fresh until you’re ready to use them! Whether it’s wrapping tightly with plastic wrap, storing in a resealable plastic bag with paper towels or freezing for later use – there’s something for everyone when it comes to storing these delicious greens.