The Difference Between Green Onions, Scallions, Spring Onions, and Chives Explained

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🌱 Green Onions, Scallions, Spring Onions & Chives: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, they all look like variations of the same green onion. They’re often used interchangeably in recipes, but each one has its own flavor, texture, and ideal purpose. Knowing which is which can make a real difference in how your dishes turn out.

🟢 1. Green Onions = Scallions (Yes, They’re the Same!)
What they are: Young onions picked before a bulb has time to form.

Appearance:

  • Slim white base with no bulb
  • Long, hollow green stalks

Flavor: Light, fresh, and slightly sweet—much milder than standard onions.

Best uses:

  • Raw: Salads, garnishes, salsas, baked potatoes
  • Cooked: Stir-fries, eggs, soups (best added near the end)

Tip: Both the white and green parts are edible—the white is more pungent, the greens more delicate.

✅ Key takeaway: “Green onions” and “scallions” are simply two names for the same ingredient.

🌱 2. Spring Onions
What they are: A slightly more mature version of scallions with a small bulb.

Appearance:

  • Small but visible bulb (about 1–2 inches wide)
  • Thicker, longer green tops

Flavor: Sweeter and more robust than scallions, similar to mild red or yellow onions.

Best uses:

  • Grill or roast whole
  • SautĂ© the bulbs and use the greens as a garnish
  • Common in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Asian cooking

Tip: Use the bulb like an onion and the greens like scallions.

âś… Key takeaway: Spring onions have a bulb; scallions do not.

🌿 3. Chives
What they are: An herb related to onions, garlic, and leeks.

Appearance:

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