10 Quotes about Garlic

I'm writing a book on the history of garlic so putting this list together is technically research. Enjoy and don't be surprised if you find yourself craving garlic bread or shrimp scampi.

Shallots are for babies; Onions are for men; Garlic is for heroes.

Author unknown

We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic.
The Holy Bible, Numbers 11

Since garlic then hath powers to save from death, bear with it though it makes unsavory breath.
Salerno Regimen of Health (12th century)


And, most dear actors, eat no onions nor garlic for we are to utter sweet breath.
A Midsummer Night's Dream William Shakespeare (1564 - 1616)


It is not really an exaggeration to say that peace and happiness begin, geographically, where garlic is used in cooking.
X. Marcel Boulestin, first television chef (1878-1943)

Without garlic, I simply would not care to live.

Louis Diat, chef of the Ritz Hotel (1885-1958)

A nickel will get you on the subway, but garlic will get you a seat.
Yiddish Proverb, Early 20th century

You're a monster, Mr. Grinch, Your heart's an empty hole, Your brain is full of spiders, You've got garlic in your soul, Mr. Grinch.
Dr. Seuss (1966)

Tomato and oregano make it Italian; wine and tarragon make it French. Sour cream makes it Russian; lemon and cinnamon make it Greek. Soy sauce makes it Chinese; garlic makes it good.
Alice May Brock (of Alice’s Restaurant)

You can never have enough garlic. With enough garlic, you can eat The New York Times.
Morley Safer (1994)