That way, you'll make clean slices through the squash without ... the cloves should pop right out. As for your onion, 45 seconds in the microwave is all you need to make slicing a breeze.

Slice the onion very thinly and put it in a microwaveable container. Add the beet, cilantro, salt, and sugar. Cover everything with 1 part water to 2 parts vinegar. Microwave for 1 minute ...