Leeks and green onions look similar to many of us, and if you’re wondering what the differences are when cooking, here’s your quick guide.
- Size. Let’s start with the simplest difference between leeks and green onions. Leeks are larger than green onions (aka scallions). Leeks are harvested at 12-8 inches in height and as much as 2 inches in diameter, while green onions are much thinner, harvested at less than 1/2 inch in diameter and up to 12 inches tall (though they can grow up to 3 feet high they still stay much less in diameter.
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- Taste. Though all onions, leeks and garlic are from the same family (the Allium genus), there are so many varieties and different purposes for different flavors. Leeks have a more delicate flavor than green onions, so if you are looking for more a traditional onion flavor, go with the green onions.
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- Preparation. Leeks are better when cooked, and will give a garlicky flavor, whereas green onions can be tasty raw or cooked. You can use green onions just like any other type of onion, and the most similar profile would be the white onion. The green parts can be used for both leeks and green onions.
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- Nutrition. In terms of what’s good for you, both leeks and green onions have tons of vitamins and nutrients, but overall, leeks are more nutrient dense, with more fiber, and much more of manganese, Vitamin K, Beta Carotene & Iron.
Now you know the difference between leeks and green onions, and don’t worry, many of us needed this little guide.