onion

When I make guacamole, I prefer to use green onions instead of red or white onions because the green have a milder flavor. However, I recently tested a recipe where the raw white onions were soaked in water for a few minutes before being added to the avocado. The resulting minced onions were noticeably less strong with a somewhat sweeter, more mellow flavor. When the guacamole was finished, rather than overpower the dish, the onions complemented it. Here's what you do:

1. Slice or dice the onion according to your recipe.
2. Place in a bowl and cover with water. Let sit on the counter for five to 10 minutes.
3. Drain, discarding the water and reserving the onions. Use immediately!

Have you done this before? How do you feel about raw onions?

Sometimes making a delicious and filling dinner can be as simple as tossing a bunch of ingredients into a pan and placing it in the oven. Sure you have to wait for the food to roast, but while you do, the house will fill with tantalizing aromas foreshadowing the savory meal to come.

Don't believe me? Then give this recipe a try. It proves that a few basic components — potatoes, onions, carrots, and sausages — can come together to create a satisfying dish. There's no fuss, no heavy chopping, and no complications in this recipe, so check it out now and read more

I have friends who are all about popping pills to ease their ills. Advil for sore knees, Tylenol for headaches, and Prilosec for heartburn. I'm not dissing these medications because they definitely serve their purpose in making you feel better, but if you're more into the natural route, here are some foods that are proven to have medicinal powers.

Asparagus: As a natural diuretic, asparagus has been consumed for inflammation-related issues such as menstrual bloating and arthritis. It's in season now, so pick some up and enjoy it steamed or grilled.

Lemon balm: This lemon-scented member of the mint family is used to banish anxiety and stress, boost memory, and aid in sleep and digestion. To feel its calming effects, sip lemon balm tea.

Onion: Although they're known to cause bad breath, it's worth it when you find out this veggie reduces diabetes symptoms and protects against cardiovascular disease. Also prevents inflammation caused by allergies, protects against stomach ulcers, and colon, esophageal, and breast cancers. Add red or yellow onions to dishes, eating them raw or lightly cooked for the most benefit.

Grapes: If you're having issues with constipation, boil 10 grapes in six ounces of milk. Before bed, drink the milk separately and then eat the grapes.

Learn about three more medicinal foods when you read more

For the first 23 years of my life, I thought salsa was something purchased at the grocery store or enjoyed at a Mexican restaurant. Then one day, I realized I could make it at home using fresh ingredients and everything changed.

The entire experience of eating salsa (with tortilla chips, of course) was enhanced. The juicy sweetness of tomatoes, the spicy heat of jalapeños, the subtle smokiness of chili powder, the crunchy bite of raw onion — it was like tasting salsa for the first time.

Don't be intimidated if you've never made salsa before, it's wildly easy and domestically rewarding. While having a food processor allows you to make salsa in mere minutes, it can also be done the old-fashioned way by finely chopping the ingredients. To check out my favorite salsa recipe read more