Garlic: The World’s Most Versatile Spice

Garlic is said to have originated from Asia as far back as the biblical times. In the beginning, it was intended to cure or alleviate a myriad of physical ailments such as indigestion, sinus congestion, and even heart conditions. Once people discovered that garlic is also an excellent flavoring agent, its popularity spread. Nowadays, one would be hard pressed to find a dish without garlic as an ingredient.

Garlic's versatility has no boundaries. Easy to find and very inexpensive, it has a place in every type of cuisine from Asian to Italian to American. Think Beef in Garlic Sauce, Pasta Aglio Olio, and Garlic Bread. The possibilities are endless.

There are also different variations of this spice. Garlic presents itself as a whole bulb with many cloves, as a powder, or even a paste. Its ease of use is outstanding. 1/8 of a teaspoon of garlic powder can be combined with a tablespoon of melted butter to liven up a plate of green beans. Sauté chopped garlic in olive oil and toss with pasta

Garlic truly is a very important and handy ingredient and no kitchen should ever be without it.

Green Beans with Garlic Butter
1 lb fresh green beans, ends snipped
2 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Freshly ground pepper (optional)

Bring a pot of water to boil. Add the green beans and simmer until tender, usually no more than five minutes. Meanwhile, microwave the butter and garlic powder until the butter is melted. Drain the green beans and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the butter mixture over them and toss to coat. If desired, season to taste with freshly ground pepper.

Pasta Aglio Olio
This is a much simplified, kid-friendly version.
1 lb Angel Hair pasta
8-10 cloves of garlic peeled and chopped
½ cup of olive oil
Salt and pepper
Grated parmesan cheese (to taste)

Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and transfer to a serving bowl. Heat the olive oil in a small sauté pan and add the chopped garlic. Stir frequently as this will prevent over-browning the garlic. Remove from heat and pour directly over the pasta. Toss to coat evenly and season with salt, pepper, and parmesan cheese. Enjoy!

Garlic-Mayonnaise Sandwich Spread

Combine ¼ cup mayonnaise with ¼ teaspoon garlic powder and chill for at least two hours. This will add zip to any sandwich.

Source: articlecity

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