What Are Spring Onions?

Understanding the Basics

Spring onions are one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen, yet they often spark confusion. What are spring onions? Simply put, they are a type of young onion harvested before the bulb fully develops. Unlike their mature counterparts, spring onions have a milder flavor, a delicate crunch, and a bright green stalk that’s as edible as it is flavorful. They’re often mistaken for scallions or green onions, but they’re not quite the same, it’s a distinction worth knowing for anyone who cooks.

Not Just Scallions

One of the most common questions I hear is whether spring onions and scallions are the same thing. The answer is no. While both are immature onions, spring onions develop a small, rounded bulb at the base, whereas scallions (also called green onions in the U.S.) have a straight, tube-like base and are typically harvested even earlier. The subtle difference in flavor is noticeable to a trained palate, spring onions are slightly stronger and more onion-forward than scallions.

How to Cook With Spring Onions

Spring onions can be used in a range of dishes, from fresh salads to savory stir-fries. I like to chop the white bulb and sauté it with olive oil as a base for soups and sauces. The green tops? They’re perfect for garnishing everything from tacos to baked potatoes. They grill beautifully and take on a mellow sweetness when roasted. Their adaptability means you can toss them raw into a cucumber salad or caramelize them alongside root vegetables.

Where to Find Spring Onions and When

You’ll usually find spring onions at farmers’ markets and grocery stores during the warmer months, particularly late spring through early summer. They’re often sold in bunches with their roots still attached, signaling their freshness. Choose ones with firm white bulbs and vibrant green stalks that stand tall. Store them in the refrigerator wrapped loosely in a damp paper towel and a zip lock bag, they’ll stay fresh for up to a week.

How to Grow Your Own Spring Onions

Growing spring onions at home is remarkably simple, even for beginner gardeners. All you need is a bit of soil, some sunlight, and water. You can start from seeds or, more conveniently, from kitchen scraps. Save the white root ends of store-bought spring onions, place them in a glass with a little water, and within days, you’ll see new green shoots emerging. Once the roots are a few centimeters long, plant them in a pot or garden bed with well-draining soil. Keep them moist, and in just a few weeks, you’ll have fresh, homegrown spring onions ready to harvest

When Are Spring Onions in Season?

Spring onions are typically in season from early spring through the beginning of summer, depending on your climate. In most regions, they start to appear in markets around March or April and continue through June. However, because they’re grown in a range of climates and are quick to mature, you may find locally grown varieties well into fall. If you’re growing them yourself, stagger your plantings every few weeks to enjoy a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

Health and Nutritional Highlights

Like many alliums, spring onions offer more than just flavor. They contain vitamin C, folate, and beneficial plant compounds like flavonoids. While they’re no superfood miracle, they’re a smart addition to a balanced diet. Their mild taste also makes them a good choice for those easing into eating raw vegetables or adding more greens to their meals.

Final Notes

So, what are spring onions? They’re flavorful, flexible, and often overlooked. Whether you’re refining a soup, adding crunch to a wrap, or brightening up a plate of roasted vegetables, spring onions bring a fresh note that’s unmistakable. If you’re not already cooking with them, now’s the perfect time to start.
For more kitchen inspiration, tips, and seasonal recipes, follow us on social media, we share daily ideas for home cooks of every level.