Scallion vs Onion

A side-by-side guide to substituting Onion for Scallion (or vice versa).

Quick answer

Use 0.75 tbsp of Onion for every 1 tbsp of Scallion.

Side-by-side

Scallion

Base unit: tbsp

Read the full guide: Scallion

Onion

Conversion: Use 75% as much (0.75 tbsp per 1 tbsp)

Tags: common

Notes: Sharper and less tender than scallions; use about three-quarters the amount, finely chopped or sliced thin. Works well in cooked dishes but lacks mild, fresh bite of raw scallions.

Read the full guide: Onion

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When to use Onion instead of Scallion

Sharper and less tender than scallions; use about three-quarters the amount, finely chopped or sliced thin. Works well in cooked dishes but lacks mild, fresh bite of raw scallions. The conversion is use 75% as much (0.75 tbsp per 1 tbsp).

Common questions

Can I substitute Onion for Scallion?

Yes — Sharper and less tender than scallions; use about three-quarters the amount, finely chopped or sliced thin. Works well in cooked dishes but lacks mild, fresh bite of raw scallions. Ratio: Use 75% as much (0.75 tbsp per 1 tbsp).

What's the conversion ratio for Scallion to Onion?

Use 75% as much (0.75 tbsp per 1 tbsp). For other quantities, use the SubSwap calculator.

Are Scallion and Onion interchangeable?

They are similar in most uses, but Sharper and less tender than scallions; use about three-quarters the amount, finely chopped or sliced thin..

Is Onion a better substitute than other options for Scallion?

Onion is one of the options SubSwap lists for Scallion. The 'best' choice depends on your recipe — see the full list of Scallion substitutes.

Looking for more Scallion substitutes beyond Onion?

See all Scallion swaps →

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