August Harvest of the Month: Garlic
There’s no room for bland food when you have garlic on the table. It’s full of savory flavor that can spice up meals; and better yet, its powerful antioxidants may help ward off viruses and protect the heart and brain.
Garlic contains compounds that may protect vital organs and strengthen the immune system. Allicin, an amino acid present in garlic, may reduce inflammation and help prevent infections. Other compounds found in garlic may help support cognitive function, heart and lung health.
To incorporate garlic into your well-being journey, head to the store and select garlic that is firm and free of soft spots, with a white or purple-and-white papery coating around the cloves. Garlic tends to appear more yellow in color as it ages. Store the entire head of garlic in a well-ventilated and cool, dark place, where it should stay fresh for up to six months. Cloves removed from the head of the garlic will last about three weeks when stored in a cool, dark place. Once you chop garlic, keep it in a sealed bag or container in your refrigerator for up to three days.
Garlic has a strong flavor that can be difficult to disguise in foods. A great way to introduce kids to garlic is to add a very small amount of it to family-favorite snacks and recipes such as hard boiled eggs, guacamole, herb-roasted chicken, pasta dishes, mashed potatoes, or pretzel twists.
Check out these tasty garlic recipes: