Introduction: The Versatile Scallion
Scallions, also known as green onions or spring onions, have a mild yet distinct flavor that brings an appealing touch to various dishes. They are versatile enough to be incorporated into appetizers, main courses, and even desserts. In this article, we will explore 10 delicious scallion recipes, from the initial moments of entertaining your guests to the final course of your culinary creations.
Appetizer: Scallion Pancakes
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup boiling water
– 4 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
– 1 bunch scallions, finely sliced
Directions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually pour in the boiling water while stirring until you have a soft dough. Cover and let it rest for at least half an hour.
2. Divide the dough into 8 equal parts. Roll each part out into a round shape approximately 1/4 inch thick. Brush each with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, then sprinkle sliced scallions evenly on top. Gently roll the dough into a tight cylinder and twist it into a spiral shape. Pinch the ends together to secure the pancake and set aside.
3. Heat the remaining vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the scallion pancakes until golden brown, turning once to cook evenly on both sides. Serve with dipping sauces like soy sauce, sesame oil, or a sweet chili sauce.
Side Dish: Scallion and Potato Gratin
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potatoes, thinly sliced
– 6 scallions, chopped
– 3 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced potatoes, chopped scallions, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix until well combined.
3. Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes or until the top starts to brown slightly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Main Course: Scallion Chicken Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup soy sauce, divided
– 3 tablespoons sesame oil, divided
– 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 bunches scallions, white and green parts separated
– 8 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup rice wine or dry sherry
– 1 cup chicken stock
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
1. In a large bowl, combine half of the soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of sesame oil with the chicken thighs. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the white parts of the scallions until tender, approximately 4 minutes. Remove from the wok and set aside.
3. Add the remaining sesame oil to the wok and stir-fry the chicken until it is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
4. In a small bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, rice wine or sherry, and remaining soy sauce. Add this mixture to the wok along with the scallion green parts. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the chicken and reserved scallion whites to the wok. Stir in the chicken stock and bring it to a boil. Dissolve cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water and gradually add to the stir-fry while constantly stirring. Cook until the sauce has thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve the scallion chicken stir-fry over rice or noodles, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Salad: Scallion and Avocado Salad
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 cups mixed greens
– 3 ripe avocados, peeled and cut into wedges
– 2 bunches scallions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Directions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined to create the dressing. Set aside.
2. Divide the mixed greens among serving plates or a large salad bowl. Top with avocado wedges and sliced scallions.
3. Just before serving, drizzle the salad dressing over the ingredients. Garnish with goat cheese (if using) and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors of this delightful salad.
Main Course: Scallion Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pasta (e.g., penne or spaghetti)
– 3 tablespoons butter, divided
– 6 scallions, sliced into thin rounds
– 4 cups frozen peas and carrots
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced scallions and cook for about 3-5 minutes or until tender. Add the frozen peas and carrots and continue cooking for another 6-8 minutes or until the vegetables are heated through.
3. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, remaining tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook until the sauce has thickened slightly and combined well with the ingredients.
4. Combine the cooked pasta and vegetable mixture in a large serving dish or individual bowls. Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired for an indulgent and flavorful main course.
Dessert: Scallion Cream Cheese Muffins
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 3 eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 scallions, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, and softened cream cheese until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing each addition thoroughly before adding the next egg.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sliced scallions, and chopped nuts (if using). Gradually incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy these unique scallion cream cheese muffins as an unexpected dessert.
Conclusion
Scallions, with their versatile flavor, can be incorporated into various dishes ranging from appetizers to main courses and even desserts. The 10 recipes presented in this article provide a delightful assortment of culinary experiences that showcase the potential of scallions in creating mouthwatering dishes for any occasion. From savory appetizers and scrumptious side dishes to hearty main courses and even decadent desserts, there is surely a scallion-infused creation here for everyone to enjoy.