How to Freeze Green Onions & Scallions (The EASY way!)

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Green onions are a versatile vegetable. Their vibrant green hue and mild onion flavor can elevate a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. But what happens when you have more green onions than you can use immediately? Fear not, freezing green onions is a simple and effective way to preserve their freshness and flavor for future use. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to freeze green onions like a pro.

A pile of chopped green onions on a cutting board.

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Can you freeze green onions?

Yes, you can freeze and save green onions for later use. This same method works for chives and scallions as well!

Freezing green onions is an easy cooking hack that allows you to enjoy their fresh flavor long after their peak season has passed. By following these simple steps for preparation, chopping, packaging, and storage, you can ensure your green onions retain their vibrancy and taste for months to come.

So next time you find yourself with an abundance of green onions (like I did with last year’s garden!), don’t let them go to waste—freeze them and savor the flavor of freshness year-round!

Green onions picked from the garden and stacked up.

How to Freeze Green Onions

STEP 1: Wash your onions

Begin by rinsing them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

Next, pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they are free of excess moisture. Now, you’re ready to move on to the chopping phase.

STEP 2: Chop up your onions.

Start by trimming off the root ends of the onions and any wilted or discolored tops. Then, using a sharp knife, finely chop the remaining green and white parts of the onions to your desired size. Some prefer a coarse chop, while others opt for a finer mince.

STEP 3: Flash Freeze

To prevent onions from clumping together, I recommend flash freezing them.

Lay some parchment paper down (to make for easier clean up) and spread them out. Place in the freezer uncovered.

Diced green onions on parchment paper prepped for flash freezing.

After they had been in there for a few hours, move to a Ziploc bag or storage container.

A freezer bag of chopped frozen green onions.

A container filled with chopped, frozen green onions.

How to Use Green Onions that Have Been Frozen & Thawed

Since freezing onions will cause them to lose their crisp texture, they are best used in cooked dishes. Here are some of our delicious recipes that use green onions:

Honey Bourbon Chicken and Stir Fry Vegetables on a large white platter.

More Resources on Freezer Cooking

We have a wealth of information on freezer cooking that you might find helpful. Make sure you start with all of the freezer meals in our recipe index.

Here are a few more ideas:

FAQs

Do you need to blanch green onions before freezing?

No, blanching is not necessary for freezing green onions. Unlike some other vegetables, green onions retain their flavor and texture well without blanching.

How long can you freeze green onions?

Green onions can be frozen for up to six months without significant loss of quality. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s advisable to use them within three to four months.

Do green onions lose their texture after freezing?

Yes, green onions will lose their firmness after freezing and thawing. However, they won’t lose their taste. This is why we advise using them in cooked dishes after freezing.