Chives are the leaves of an onion-like plant (Allium schoenoprasum) that has been used for centuries in cooking. They have quite a strong taste, similar to onion and garlic, though a little milder. Chives are used throughout European cuisine, particularly in France where it is often added to soft cheeses and fish dishes.

Chives work well in cheese-based dishes or as a milder alternative to garlic. Chives have nutritional benefits similar to garlic, with evidence to suggest that they can similarly help lower blood pressure by opening up blood vessels and thinning the blood.