(Family Features) - Although it's easy to grab prepared foods off the grocery store shelf, nothing beats the fresh, homemade taste that comes from fixing food at home. Despite what you may think, homemade fare doesn't necessarily require a long list of ingredients or complicated instructions.

By simply combining fruits and vegetables, even the less-experienced cook can create a unique dish at home that showcases seasonal flavor and freshness. Grocery stores, farmers' markets and backyard gardens have an array of summer produce.When looking for the perfect blend of flavor, texture, color and nutrients, think onions!

Onions offer endless possibilities year-round, but summer is the perfect time to enjoy an onion raw or grilled. That's because fresh U.S.-grown onions (available until mid-September) are higher in water content and milder in flavor than fall and winter varieties. To capture that fresh flavor, create a signature salsa or avocado dip. This duo goes well with tortilla chips and Mexican food, but these dips can also add unforgettable flavor and freshness to grilled meats, vegetables and other dishes.

For more recipes, visit our Web site at www.onions-usa.org.