National Garlic Day – April 19, 2023

One thing’s obvious: There’s a certain something in the air during National Garlic Day.
Did you know that Egyptians worshipped garlic as a god—and even used it as currency? That’s not all. Garlic supposedly gave strength to Greek athletes and warriors, warded off the evil eye, and protected maidens from evil nymphs. Not to mention, vampires. (Thanks, Dracula!)
Just think about all the garlicky foods we love. There’s garlic bread and garlic fries for starters. If you feel as strongly about garlic as we do, celebrate with us on April 19.

Only 5% of Americans have avoided kissing someone because they had garlic breath — and that doubles for people who don’t love garlic.

Even though Americans love garlic, only 10% use fresh garlic regularly — 15% prefer the pre-minced kind.



NATIONAL GARLIC DAY ACTIVITIES

1. Get in the kitchenGrab a garlic clove and get cooking! Whether you’re roasting garlic for a delicious topping or using it as a base for veggies, you’ll be cooking with what we like to call "The Gods' Ambrosia." (Okay, we don’t actually call it that, but it’s pretty darn delicious.)
2. Take the garlic breath challengeThis is something we just made up, but it’s the most delicious challenge you’ll ever undertake. Incorporate garlic into every meal of the day! No one will kiss you for the entire day, but it’s okay, because you’ll be eating well for every meal. (Plus, was anyone going to kiss you anyway? Just being real.)
3. Be adventurousTry incorporating garlic in an unexpected way. Part of the fun of enjoying garlic is learning its different flavor profiles! Some unusual dishes include garlic ice cream, garlic rosemary almonds, garlic lollipops, garlic truffles — the list goes on. If you need us, we’ll be basking in garlic heaven.

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL GARLIC DAY

1. VarietyIt can be sweet — through caramelization and roasting. It can be buttery and savory — through sautéing. It can be pungent and sharp — through slicing it raw. No matter how you slice, sauté, or roast it, garlic is a truly multifaceted plant.
2. Health foodSeveral studies have shown that garlic can reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol, both of which help improve circulation. But we’re not done — oh no. It’s also an anti-inflammatory food, which helps ease heartburn and ulcers.
3. FlavorYou know how sometimes when you’re cooking and realize you forgot to add seasoning, you dump salt by the tablespoon onto your food for a quick infusion of flavor? (Okay, we’re exaggerating, but you get the point.) Drop the salt and pick up the garlic! It’s a great way to add bold taste to your dishes without adding extra sodium or calories. It’s especially great for masking the bitter taste of many vegetables. Is garlic the secret to getting kids to actually eat their veggies? Probably not, but we can dream.

https://www.seniorvoiceamerica.org/featured/national-garlic-day-april-19-2023
https://www.seniorvoiceamerica.org