Any fan of Mexican food is familiar with cilantro. But here’s something you may not know about it: The pungent green could fend off gut-cramping illness.

Potent compounds in cilantro appear to be quite a match against a strain of salmonella common in food poisoning.

Bacteria Busters
When salmonella invades your gastrointestinal
tract . . . well, we won’t go into graphic detail. Suffice it to say that it can quickly spoil a summer outing! But chopping some cilantro into your pool-party salsa just might keep the dip safer, thanks to the strong antibacterial action of substances in the green. And add extra onions to your salsa for good measure. They help battle salmonella, too. (Video: Get tips on chopping onions without the tears.)

Food That’s Fit to Eat
Keep your picnic and barbecue foods from turning on you later with these other tips:

• Don’t go by looks. Ground beef can be undercooked even if it’s brown. Here are the safe cooking temps for red meat, fish, and poultry.
• Wash, wash, and wash again. Wash your hands before you cook, wash fresh produce before preparing, and wash the food prep area when you’re done. And use plain soap and water. Here’s why.
• Know your bugs. Check out this page to find out what grows where -- and how to avoid it.

Do you have to wash produce before you peel it? Test your food-safety smarts with this interactive article.

Recipe Corner
Try this yummy Avocado Fiesta Salsa recipe made with avo, tomato, onion, and cilantro.