Chives — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Chives should appear vibrant and fresh, exhibiting a uniform bright green color throughout their length. They should be tender and crisp, not limp or dried out, and the ends should be cleanly cut without fraying. Check for a fresh, onion-like scent that is not overpowering, indicating their freshness and proper storage.

Avoid chives that are discolored, have brown spots, or show signs of wilting. High-quality chives should feel firm and springy when lightly pinched between your fingers.

Fresh chives should be refrigerated. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag to maintain their freshness. Properly stored, chives can last up to a week.

Too much moisture can make chives slimy, so it’s crucial to keep them dry. Avoid placing them near ethylene-producing fruits, which can cause them to spoil faster. Using a damp paper towel helps retain their freshness without excess moisture.

Chives can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in a plastic bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. For longer storage, chives can be chopped and frozen for up to 6 months.

Leftover chives can be used in a variety of dishes to add a fresh, mild onion flavor. Chop them and sprinkle over salads, soups, or pasta dishes as a garnish, or mix them into scrambled eggs, omelets, or frittatas for a flavorful breakfast.

Use chives in a cream cheese or sour cream dip, or blend them into a butter to spread on bread or melt over grilled meats. If you have a lot of chives, consider making a batch of chive pesto or mixing them into a vinaigrette for salads. Chives can also be used as a topping for potatoes, whether baked, mashed, or roasted, or added to a cheese spread for extra flavor. For a quick snack, try sprinkling chives over cottage cheese or mixing them into a yogurt-based dip for vegetables.

Chives are a nutrient-rich herb that supports immune health with their high vitamin C content, which helps protect cells from oxidative stress. They also contain antioxidants, such as quercetin, which promote heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering cholesterol levels. Chives are low in calories and high in fiber, supporting digestive health and promoting regular bowel movements. Additionally, their vitamin K content contributes to bone health by improving calcium absorption, helping maintain strong bones.