Garlic

Health Benefits:  This member of the lily family has antifungal activity (and imparts that pungent aroma); it's also full of antioxidants. When garlic is cut, chopped, or smashed, a chemical reaction occurs and allicin if formed. Allicin is known to strengthen our immune systems, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and help prevent blood clots.

How to Use:  In the kitchen, garlic embraces everything it encounters — vegetables, meat, pasta — and when roasted, it's practically a confection. Sweet, spicy, or smoky, garlic will amp up the flavor of all kinds of dishes.

How to Store:  While keeping a bulb in your pantry might not scare off evil spirits, it will let everyone know you're not an alliumphobe -- a person with an irrational fear of garlic.

Growing:  Garlic can easily be grown in your backyard, and fall is the best time to plant it.