Hi friends, it’s Megan K., showing some love to one of the most underrated stars of the kitchen: the Allium family. You know them—onions, shallots, scallions... those humble bulbs that quietly bring magic to every meal.

Onions… Onions… Onions!

If you've ever stood in the produce aisle wondering which onion to grab, you’re not alone. Onions are the quiet heroes of the kitchen—adding depth, sweetness, and a punch of flavor to just about everything. They may not be the flashiest ingredient in your kitchen, but they’re one of the most essential. Whether you’re caramelizing, sautéing, roasting, or tossing them raw into a salad, the right onion can completely transform a dish.

Each variety has its own personality. This is your guide to understanding yellow, white, sweet, red, shallots, and green onions, also known as scallions. Also, a breakdown of their unique flavors, peak seasons, health perks, and how to use them like a pro.

Meet the Alliums

All onions belong to the Allium family—relatives of garlic, leeks, and chives. That’s why you’ll often hear them called “alliums” in food circles. They’re known for their sulfur-rich compounds, which give them their sharp aroma and impressive health benefits.

Yellow Onions

Flavor Profile — Bold, Pungent Raw, Sweet & Savory when Cooked
Season — Fall through Spring
Best Ways to Use — Roasting, Caramelizing, Soups & Stews

Yellow onions are the kitchen workhorse, the MVP’s. They have a tough skin, high sulfur content, and a bold flavor that mellows and sweetens beautifully when cooked. They hold up to heat like a champ and bring a savory backbone to everything from French onion soup to slow-braised roasts

White Onions

Flavor Profile — Crisp, Sharp & Slightly Less Sweet than Yellow Onions
Season — Peak in Spring & Summer
Best Ways to Use — Salsas, Tacos, Fresh Salads & Mexican Cuisine

These guys are a little more pungent and have a thinner skin and crisp with a bit more bite, making them ideal for raw applications where you want a clean onion taste—like a fresh pico de gallo or guacamole topper, perfect for Mexican or Southwestern dishes. Also, if you’re after a clean crunch with heat, white onions are your go-to.

Sweet Onions | Vidalia, Walla Walla, Maui

Flavor — Mild, Sugary, Low in Sulfur
Season — Spring & Early Summer
Best Ways to Use — Burgers, Onion Rings, Raw & Caramelized for Sauces

Sweet onions are almost juicy. They're perfect for eating raw, thanks to their low sulfur content. These low-pungency onions are perfect for those who typically shy away from raw onion. Their naturally sweet flavor makes them ideal for onion rings or grilled onions on burgers. Just slice thin and stack them high on sandwiches or caramelize into jammy perfection.

Red Onions

Flavor Profile — Mild to Peppery… More Astringent Raw
Season — Late Summer through Fall
Best Ways to Use — Salads, Pickling & Grilling

Red onions bring bold color and flavor. Slice them thin for a tangy salad topping or quick-pickle them with vinegar, salt, and sugar and use as a tangy topping for tacos, burgers, grain bowls, eggs… the possibilities are endless. Also, they are great to toss on the grill for a smoky, mellow finish.

Shallots

Flavor Profile — Mild, Sweet, Slightly Garlicky
Season — Year-Round
Best Ways to Use — Dressings, Vinaigrettes & Sauces

Shallots are the elegant cousin—smaller and more delicate than other onions, with a purple-tinged skin and subtle flavor. Use them raw in dressings or finely chopped in sauces when garlic feels too aggressive, or roasted whole with chicken or veggies.

Green Onions | Scallions

Flavor Profile — Mild, Grassy, Oniony
Season — Spring & Summer… But usually available year-round!
Best Ways to Use — Garnishes, Stir-Fries, Eggs & Dips

Scallions are super versatile—use both the white and green parts as all of it is delicious and edible. They’re amazing raw for crunch or cooked for gentle flavor. Use them as a bright finishing touch on soups, toss into scrambled eggs, or stir-fry for gentle onion flavor. You can toss chopped scallions on just about anything for instant brightness and an extra pop of flavor.

Little Bulbs, Big Benefits

Onions are more than just flavor boosters—they’re nutritional powerhouses. Rich in antioxidants like quercetin, onions can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. They’re also a source of vitamin C, fiber, and prebiotics that fuel a healthy gut. Plus, they’re low in calories and naturally fat-free.

Final Bite

Each onion variety brings something special to the table—literally. Whether you’re whipping up a slow-cooked stew or just topping your avocado toast, there’s an onion that’s just right for the job. Depending on what you are after, whether it be sweet, sharp, mild, or bold, there's an onion for every flavor profile and every season. Keep a few different kinds on hand and experiment. Your taste buds… and your immune system will thank you.