“How easily happiness begins by dicing onions…” is the first line of a poem “Onions” by William Matthews. Even though rarely a subject of love poems and love letters, onion is a much loved and appreciated staple of our everyday diet. And I personally agree with the master poet – dicing onions usually signals a delicious meal to come and it also tells us the story of labor of love (as all that chopping while crying (or is it crying while chopping?) and then smelling the aroma lingering on your fingertips long after the hands been triple washed, can’t be called anything else!).

Onions are members of Allium genus of flowering plants that also include cultivated garlic, shallots, chives, scallions and leeks. Packed with nutrients, onions are high in minerals and low in calories, have antibacterial properties and are loaded with antioxidants. Onions may boost bone density and help digestive issues, as well as benefit our hearts. Onions are known to contain cancer fighting compounds and have been used for centuries to treat headaches, mouth sores and heart disease. Raw onions – especially the purple ones –  stimulate insulin production. The purple onions (also called red onions – and on a side note- it is almost funny that both “end colors” of the rainbow (red and purple) and also “end colors” of the Chakras (in some schools of thought) are used interchangeably when referring to onions) are also rich in fiber which substantiates the claim that they are good at fighting constipation, and helping in getting rid of toxins.

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Purple (or red) onions contain a higher amount of antioxidant compounds than yellow or white onions. They are also higher in total flavonoids. (As we know it is usually true for all deep hued vegetables, greens and fruit – they contain higher amounts of phytonutrients, minerals and vitamins  if compared to their pale faced brothers and sisters!)

The purple onion has a somewhat sweet, mild flavor and a crisp texture that makes it an ideal onion for eating it raw. I personally love adding it to salsas and salads, sandwiches and I also use it whenever I have a chance while sauteing greens and vegetables.

My favorite red papaya – avocado – purple onion salad recipe is enclosed. As easily as “happiness begins by dicing the onions”, it continues… by making this healthy and delicious salad, and then enjoying it, either on its own or with a fish (salmon works very well).

Enjoy!

P.S. Notice the distinct heart shape inside that onion in the photo? It seems to be saying: ” See, I am even showing you that I AM good for you and your heart!” Well, yes, dear, thank you, we know. So, let’s enjoy the happiness and health that onions bring!

Written by Indra Strong, Certified Let It Go Yoga teacher.

Photo Credit Indra Strong

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