12 Best Green Onion Substitutes To Use In Any Recipe

green onion substitutes
12 min reading time

Most people are familiar with onions. They come in many different varieties, including white onions, yellow onions, and red onions.

But have you ever heard of green onion?


A green onion is simply an onion that has not been allowed to fully mature. The entire onion, including the bulb, stalk, and leaves, is edible. Green onions have a milder flavor than other types of onions, making them a popular ingredient in salads and other dishes. They can also be used as a garnish or added to soups and stir-fries.

So next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a bunch of green onions!

Use Of Green Onion

Every part of the green onion can be used in cooking. The white base is the most flavourful, while the green tops are more mild.

You can use both the white and green parts in many recipes, such as sautéing them with other vegetables or adding them to soups or salads.

You can also use green onion tops as a garnish for cooked dishes. If you’re looking for a more intense onion flavor, you can use shallots or red onions instead.

Green onions are a versatile ingredient that can add both flavor and color to your cooking. So don’t be afraid to experiment with them in different dishes. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite recipe!

12 Best Green Onion Substitutes

Green onions are a delicious and healthy addition to any dish, but what do you do when you run out? This substitution for green onions guide will teach you how to use other ingredients to create a similar flavor profile. With a little creativity, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite dishes even when green onions are unavailable.

1. Chives

Chives - green onion substitutes

Chives are an incredibly versatile herb that can be used as a substitute for green onion in a variety of recipes whether they will be served raw or cooked.

Though they have a milder flavor, chives still provide the same zesty kick that green onion does. They’re also a great way to add some extra color to your dish.

Green onions can be directly replaced with chives. Just keep in mind that they will cook much more quickly than their heartier peer, so reduce the cook times accordingly and watch your dish carefully as you work.

Use chives in a 1:1 ratio for green onions in any recipe.

2. Shallots

Shallots - green onion substitutes

You can try shallots! as a green onion Substitute in your cooking. Shallots are a type of onion that is harvested when it is still immature. This gives them a milder flavor than mature onions, making them perfect for dishes where you don’t want the onion flavor to be too overpowering.

If you’re going to substitute shallots for green onions, it’s a good idea to cut them into little pieces and use a little less of the shallots than you would of the scallion because their flavour is stronger.

Shallots have a softer texture than green onions, so they can be used as a replacement in recipes that call for cooked onions.. However, when used raw, they are less suitable than green onions, which are typically used to top soups, salads, potatoes, and other dishes.

Use chopped shallots in a 1:1 ratio for green onions in any recipe.

3. Leeks

Leeks - green onion substitutes

Leeks are a great substitute for green onions. They have a milder flavor, so they won’t overpower your dish. Leeks are also a good source of vitamins A & C, as well as fiber. Plus, they’re low in calories, so you can feel good about eating them.

Leeks are great to have around the kitchen because you can use them in so many different recipes. Leeks work well in a variety of dishes and can be used in place of green onions, either raw or cooked.

Leeks have a strong flavour and may not be your favourite food when eaten raw, but they are delicious when fried or added to soups, or baked recipes.

Leeks can be filled with dirt due to their many layers, so please wash them thoroughly before adding them to your recipe. If you’re looking for a healthy way to add flavor to your food, try using leeks instead of green onions.

Use leeks in a 1:1 ratio for green onions.

4. Ramps

Ramps - green onion substitutes

If you’re in a pinch and need a green onion substitute, look no further than the humble ramp! Ramps are a type of wild onion that have a milder flavor than their domesticated cousins.

They can be used in any dish that calls for green onions, from omelets to salads. Just be sure to use them sparingly, as their flavor is quite potent.

Ramps can be hard to find in most stores, but if you do, you might like them in your food even more than green onions. However, if you plan to eat them raw, you might not like them.

According to Substitute Cooking, one cup of chopped ramps can be used in place of half a cup of green onions.

Use ramps in a 1:1 ratio for green onions that will enhance the flavors.

5. Yellow Onions

Yellow onions - green onion substitutes

While yellow onions may not be the first choice when it comes to green onion substitutes, they can actually work quite well in many recipes.

Yellow onions have a slightly sweeter flavor than green onions, so they can be a good option for dishes that are meant to be on the sweeter side.

They also have a softer texture, which can make them a good choice for dishes that are meant to be creamy or smooth. And, of course, yellow onions are much easier to find than green onions, so they can be a good option when you’re in a pinch.

Use yellow onions in a 1:1 ratio for green onions.

6. Red Onions

Red onions - green onion substitutes

In terms of taste, a red onion can be a great substitute. While the flavor is not exactly the same, red onions are similarly pungent and will add a nice pop of color to your dish.

Just be sure to give them a good chop so they don’t overpower the other flavors in your recipe.

Similar to yellow onions, red onions are also easy to find in any store that sells vegetables. They are commonly used in both raw and cooked recipes. With a little creativity, you can turn that run-of-the-mill dish into something special that your family and friends will love.

Use red onions in a 1:1 ratio for green onions.

7. Green Garlic

Green garlic - green onion substitutes

Green garlic, also known as spring garlic or baby garlic, is a variety of garlic that is harvested before the cloves have fully developed. It has a milder flavor than mature garlic, and its tender greens can be used in place of chives or green onion.

Green garlic tastes and smells quite strongly like garlic. This will alter the flavour of your food, but not in a bad way, especially if you enjoy the flavour of garlic.

Green garlic is often used in soups, stews, and stir-fries, or it can be added to salads for a bit of extra flavor.

8. Garlic

garlic - green onion substitutes

As any garlic lover knows, this pungent bulb adds flavor to just about any dish. But did you know that garlic can also be used as a substitute for green onion?

If you use garlic instead of green onions, you can follow the same cooking instructions, but you’ll need to finely chop the garlic to make it look as much like an onion as possible. You’ll get all the flavor of onion without the sweetness.

It is always worthwhile to try adding garlic to your food, even if you have green onions. Garlic is also a great way to add depth of flavor to soups and stews.

9. Green Bell Peppers

Green bell peppers - green onion substitutes

Do you love the taste of green onion but hate the price? Then head to your local grocery store and pick up some green bell peppers! Green bell peppers are not only a fraction of the cost of green onion, but they also have a similar flavor.

Green bell peppers could be a great green onions substitute if your main goal is to give your food a vibrant green colour and crunchy texture.

Simply chop up green bell pepper into small cubes to resemble green onions as much as possible and add it to your favorite dish. You’ll be amazed by how closely it tastes.

Use green bell peppers in a 1:1 ratio for green onions without overpowering the dish.

10. Dried Green Onions

Dried green onions - green onion substitutes

Dried green onions are a great substitute for fresh green onions. They have a similar taste and texture, and they’re also a great way to add flavor to your food.

The best way to use dried green onions is to add them to soups, stews, or casseroles. You can also use them as a garnish on salads or as a topping on pizzas or pasta dishes.

If you’re looking for a healthy and flavorful way to add more vegetables to your diet, dried green onions are a perfect option. And, if you’re tired of using the same old spices in your cooking, dried green onions are a great way to add new and exciting flavors to your recipes.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something different, reach for the dried green onion instead of the fresh green onion. You’ll be glad you did!

Use dried green onions in a 1:1 ratio, you may increase the ratio for a stronger onion flavor.

11. Dried Herb Mix

Dried Herb Mix - green onion substitutes
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If you’re looking for a way to add some flavor to your meals, a dried herb mix is a great substitute for green onion. Dried herb mixes are available in many different varieties, so you can find one that suits your taste.

You can also use them to add flavor to soups, stews, and casseroles. Simply add the mix to the dish during the last few minutes of cooking.

Dried herb mixes are a great way to add flavor to your food without having to chop fresh herbs. They’re also a convenient way to keep herbs on hand when you need them.

12. Dried Yellow Onions

Dried yellow onions - green onion substitutes
Source: flouronmyface.com

Dried yellow onions as a substitute for Green Onion may sound like a strange idea, but it can actually work quite well in certain dishes.

For example, if you’re making a soup or stew that calls for green onion, you can simply add a few dried yellow onions to the pot. The dried onions will rehydrate and turn green as they cook, giving your dish the desired onion flavor.

You can also use dried yellow onions as a topping for salads or baked potatoes. If you’re looking for a more pronounced onion flavor, try crushing the dried onions before adding them to your dish. Either way, dried yellow onions are a versatile pantry staple that can help you create delicious meals.

You won’t regret substituting with dried yellow onions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use onion instead of green onion?

Yes, you can use onion instead of green onion in most recipes. However, keep in mind that the flavor and aroma of onion will be more pronounced than that of green onion.

What can I substitute for green onions in fried rice?

Green onions, also known as scallions, are a key ingredient in fried rice. However, if you’re out of them or don’t have any on hand, there are a few substitutes you can use. One option is to use white onion. Dice the onion and sauté it in a bit of oil until it’s softened before adding the other ingredients to the pan. Another option is to use a milder green such as chives or parsley. If you’re looking for a more flavorful substitution, try using diced shallots or red onion.

How to choose a green onion substitute?

If you’re looking for something that will give your dish a similar taste and texture to green onions, try using finely chopped shallots or chives. Both of these onion varieties have a milder flavor and a more delicate texture than regular onions, so they should work well as a substitute in most recipes.

What’s the difference between green onions, scallions, and spring onions?

Green onions are a type of scallion, which is a type of onion. All three are basically the same thing—young onions that have been pulled before they’ve had a chance to bulb. The only real difference is in how they’re marketed and used.

Green onions are usually sold with the green tops still on, while scallions have the green tops removed and spring onions have white and light green parts as well. Spring onions are generally larger than scallions and green onions. Scallions tend to be milder in flavor than either green or spring onions.

What are the health benefits of green onions?

Green onions provide a host of health benefits, including cancer prevention, Weight loss, enhanced blood circulation, and improved digestion. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, potassium, and phytonutrients.

Green onions are an excellent addition to any diet. They are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them the perfect weight-loss food. They also contain cancer-fighting phytonutrients that help to protect the body against disease. Additionally, green onions improve blood circulation and digestion. All in all, they make a healthy and nutritious addition to any diet.

How to store green onions for a long time?

There are a few things you can do to store green onions for a long time. You can either cut off the root end and place them in a glass of water on your kitchen counter, or you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in the refrigerator. They should last for about 7-10 days this way.

Thank you for reading! I hope this article has helped you in your search for a green onion substitutes. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below and I will get back to you as soon as possible. Thanks again!

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