Shallots vs Green Onions: Key Differences and Uses Explained

Differences between shallots and green onions often spark curiosity among cooking enthusiasts. Shallots vs green onions, what’s the difference?

Shallots have a milder taste compared to green onions, making them ideal for recipes that require subtle flavor. In contrast, green onions, also known as scallions, have a more pronounced, sharper bite, perfect for garnishing and adding a fresh touch to dishes.

Identifying these vegetables can be straightforward. Shallots possess a brownish skin and grow in clusters, somewhat resembling garlic bulbs. Meanwhile, green onions are slender, featuring white bulbs and long green stalks, typically sold in bunches at grocery stores.

Each has its unique applications in cooking. For example, shallots are often used in sauces, dressings, and sautés where a gentle onion flavor is desired. Green onions frequently appear in salads, soups, and as toppings to provide a crunchy texture and vibrant taste.

This article will take a close look at their differences including nutrients, prices, test, texture, cooking uses and storage.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Smoothie Diet: Jade shred 12 pounds in only 21 days! Check out the Smoothie Diet, delicious, easy to make smoothies for rapid weight loss.

Shallots on the left and green onions on the right. — Shallots on the left and green onions on the right

Botanical Background

Shallots and green onions belong to the Allium family, but they occupy distinct branches in the plant classification system. This distinction provides insights into their unique features and uses.

Classification of Shallots

Shallots, classified as Allium cepa var. aggregatum, are a type of onion. They are known for their mild flavor, which is a cross between garlic and onion. The plant grows in clusters like garlic, with each cluster containing multiple bulbs.

Shallots grow in well-drained soil and prefer cooler climates. They have a papery skin and can vary in color from golden brown to red. Rich in sulfur compounds, shallots have health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.

Classification of Green Onions

Green onions, also known as scallions, belong to Allium fistulosum. They do not form a bulb and are harvested for their long, green stalks. Unlike shallots, green onions are typically mild and less pungent.

Often used in Asian cuisine, green onions thrive in a variety of soils and climates. It’s possible to plant and harvest them multiple times a year. The entire plant, from the white base to the green tops, is edible, offering versatility in culinary uses.

Physical Characteristics

Shallots and green onions differ significantly in their appearance. These differences can help in distinguishing them easily in a kitchen or a grocery store.

Appearance of Shallots

Shallots are small, with a shape resembling that of a miniature elongated onion. They typically have a brown or reddish papery skin on the outside. The inner flesh can range in color from white to purple.

Shallots are usually divided into multiple cloves, similar to garlic. They possess a more delicate structure, making them easier to peel. When sliced, shallots reveal concentric layers. This characteristic sets them apart from their green onion counterparts.

Appearance of Green Onions

Green onions have a long, slender appearance with hollow green tops and small white bulbs at the base. The green tops are tubular and upright, offering a fresh, vibrant look.

In terms of size, green onions vary but generally grow up to 12 inches long. The white bulbs are often less defined and do not have multiple cloves. Unlike shallots, the entire green onion plant is used in cooking, adding variety in texture and color to dishes.

Culinary Uses

Shallots and green onions each bring unique flavors and textures to dishes, making them valuable ingredients in various cuisines. This section details how to best use each in cooking.

Cooking with Shallots

Shallots are prized for their delicate, sweet flavor with hints of garlic. Caramelizing shallots brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent addition to sauces and stews.

Raw shallots add a mild heat to salads and dressings. They blend well into vinaigrettes, providing a nuanced taste. Roast shallots by tossing them in olive oil and herbs to enhance roasts and vegetables.

In sautéed dishes, shallots serve as a flavorful base. Finely minced shallots can be used in a mirepoix, complementing carrots and celery. Incorporate them into soups for a subtle richness. Bake shallots whole with meat for an aromatic blend.

Cooking with Green Onions

Green onions, also known as scallions, provide both a mild onion flavor and vibrant color. Use raw green onions to add a crisp, fresh taste to salads, salsas, and as a topping for soups and baked potatoes.

Stir-fried green onions bring a slightly sweet, savory flavor. Add them in the last minutes of cooking to retain their texture. Grilled green onions pair well with meats and seafood, offering a smoky depth.

In soups and broths, slice green onions thinly and add them towards the end. They enhance dishes with their mild heat and bright green color. Garnish with finely chopped green onions to add a pop of color and a fresh taste to omelets and rice dishes.

Flavor Profiles

Shallots and green onions offer distinct flavors that can vastly affect the outcome of a dish. Understanding their unique taste profiles helps in choosing the right ingredient for specific recipes.

Taste of Shallots

Shallots deliver a mild, slightly sweet taste with a hint of sharpness. When raw, they have a crisp texture and a subtly pungent flavor similar to a mild onion.

Cooking shallots transforms their flavor, bringing out sweetness and reducing their intensity, making them a versatile choice for both raw and cooked dishes. They are often used in French cuisine, lending a complex, nuanced flavor.

Taste of Green Onions

Green onions, also known as scallions, offer a milder, fresher flavor. They have a crisp, juicy bite and a slight peppery note that adds a fresh element to salads, soups, and garnishes.

The white bulb is more pungent than the green stalks, which are sweeter and less intense. They are commonly used in Asian cuisine and can be enjoyed both raw and cooked, maintaining their crisp texture and bright flavor.

Taste Poll

I wanted to conduct original research and get the opinion of real people like you. So I reached out to some of my clients, readers and members of food groups and asked, which of the two, shallots and green onions, tastes better?

48% said they preferred the taste of shallots.
44% said they preferred the taste of green onions.
8% said it depended on their mood or it didn’t matter.

Nutritional Value

Shallots and green onions provide distinct nutritional benefits. Both are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals, making them valuable additions to a balanced diet.

The following table is a side-by-side nutrient comparison.

	Shallots – Raw (100 g)	Green Onions – Raw (100 g)
Calories	72	27
Protein	2.50 g	0.97 g
Carbohydrates	16.8 g	5.74 g
Fiber	3.2 g	1.8 g
Fat	0.10 g	0.47 g
Sugar	7.87 g	3.91 g
Vitamin A	4 IU	4,000 IU
Beta-carotene	3 mcg	2,400 mcg
Vitamin C	8 mg	13.4 mg
Vitamin B6	0.34 mg	0.09 mg
Vitamin B9 (Folate)	34 mcg	30 mcg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)	0.06 mg	0.03 mg
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)	0.02 mg	0.03mg
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)	0.20 mg	0.33 mg
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)	0.29 mg	0.14 mg
Magnesium	21 mg	16 mg
Phosphorous	60 mg	25 mg
Potassium	334 mg	159 mg
Iron	1.20 mg	0.51 mg
Copper	0.09 mg	0.03 mg
Calcium	37 mg	52 mg
Zinc	0.40 mg	0.20 mg

Sources: ¹ ²

Shallots provide more protein, carbohydrates, fiber, B6, folate, thiamin, B5, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, copper and zinc.

Green onions provide a higher percentage of vitamin A, vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin and calcium.

Nutrients in Shallots

Shallots are known for their high content of antioxidants and several B vitamins, which support immune function and overall health. Shallots are also a good source of minerals like potassium, magnesium and iron, essential for maintaining energy levels and muscle function.

Rich in fiber, shallots aid digestion and help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Their antioxidant compounds, including quercetin and kaempferol, provide anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Nutrients in Green Onions

Green onions offer a lighter, fresher flavor and also pack a nutritional punch. They are particularly high in vitamin K, crucial for blood clotting and bone health.

They provide a lot of vitamin C, which enhances the immune system and skin health. In addition, green onions contain folate, which is vital for cell division and DNA synthesis.

Green onions are low in calories but contain fiber, making them an excellent choice for weight management.

They also provide small amounts of calcium and iron, contributing to bone health and oxygen transport in the blood. Their rich content of antioxidants supports overall health and well-being.

Gluten Free

This goal is an easy one to determine. For people who have celiac disease, whether one food contains gluten will automatically make the decision which to choose.

Some people prefer following a gluten free diet, therefore it’s important also. Let’s answer which one of the two is gluten free.

Shallots and green onions are gluten free. Therefore, both foods are good options for a gluten free diet.

Keto Diets or Low-carb

If you’re considering one of these diets or currently consuming low-carb foods, the number of carbs may make a huge difference in your choice. Therefore, let’s examine which one has more carbohydrates.

Shallots have 16.8 grams of carbohydrates, and green onions have 5.74 per 100 grams. Green onions provides 11.06 fewer carbohydrates per 100 grams making it better for low-carb diets.

Keto Tip: Good news! You don’t have to give up your favorite bread, pizza and sandwiches to follow a 100% Keto Diet. Find out here, Keto Breads.

Weight Loss

The number of calories per serving matters a whole bunch if weight loss is the goal. Let’s examine how many calories per serving each contain.

Shallots have 72 calories, and green onions have 27 calories per 100 grams. Green onion provides 45 less calories per 100 grams making it better for weight loss.

100% Science Based: The only system that Targets The Common Cause of Weight Gain. Find out more here SeroLean.

Storage

The process of storing shallots and green onions significantly impacts their quality and shelf life. Notably, each requires different handling techniques to ensure maximum freshness and usability.

Storing Shallots

Shallots can be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place, such as a pantry or cellar, where temperatures are between 32-40°F (0-4°C). They should be kept in mesh bags or baskets to allow air circulation, preventing mold and rot.

Properly cured and stored shallots can last up to six months. It’s crucial to check them regularly for signs of spoilage and remove any deteriorating bulbs to protect the others.

Storing Green Onions

Green onions should be used fresh for the best flavor. For short-term storage, place them in the refrigerator in a plastic bag to maintain their moisture, but don’t wash them until ready to use, as excess moisture can cause decay.

For longer storage, green onions can be chopped and frozen. Lay them out on a tray to freeze individually before transferring them to an airtight container. This method retains their flavor for several months, although their texture may change.

This video discusses the differences between onions including shallots.

Availability and Purchasing

Shallots and green onions are typically available in most grocery stores. Their availability can depend on the season and the region.

I checked the prices in my local ShopRite supermarket:

Fresh shallots: $0.25 per ounce
Green onions: $0.25 per ounce

The price of shallots and green onions were the same.

Buying Shallots

Shallots can be found in the produce section, often near garlic and onions. Look for firm, dry bulbs with no soft spots or sprouting. Shallots are typically sold by weight or in pre-packaged mesh bags.

Select shallots that have a uniform size and feel heavy for their size.

When buying organic shallots, check for the organic label. Farmer’s markets can also be a good source, especially for locally grown varieties.

Buying Green Onions

Green onions, also known as scallions, are usually found in bunches. They should have fresh, green tops and clean white bases. Avoid those with wilting or yellowing tops.

Check for firm stems that don’t feel slimy. Green onions are often sold in bunches, grouped with other fresh herbs and leafy greens.

For a longer shelf life, choose green onions that still have their roots attached. Some stores also offer organic options, clearly marked in the produce aisle.