Christopher Ranch

I had breakfast next to Jake Gyllenhaal and Reese Witherspoon yesterday.

True, this has absolutely nothing to do with garlic or my post, but I can’t stop thinking about it and thought it was a good attention grabber.

Okay – it’s out of my system. We can proceed. However, for all of you wondering, they are both as good looking – if not more so – than they appear on the big screen.

Where was I? Oh, yes…back to California heirloom garlic.

So, I came across an interesting and appropriate article (particularly after a three-day celebratory weekend, which consisted of overconsumption in every form)… “10 Delicious Dishes That May Help Boost Brain Function & Concentration,” according to Food & Wine.

I could use five servings of every dish right now, and I imagine most would welcome a dose of brain power and focus.

I was particularly intrigued by these recipes, however, because fresh garlic is included in three of the 10.

Translation – eating California heirloom garlic makes you smarter. While we can’t absolutely prove this (alas, we aren’t scientists), there is probable truth, as fresh garlic is high in Vitamin B (a brain stimulant), a blood thinner (likely increasing blood flow to the brain), antioxidant and antiviral (general promoters of good health).

In addition to garlic, several other foods, known for brain-strengthening components, were incorporated into these genius dishes, such as:
Almonds – Vitamin E “may help slow cognitive decline;”
Tuna, pomegranate seeds, salmon, walnuts, mackerel - Omega 3 fatty acids “important for brain function;”
Dark chocolate – Natural caffeine “quick-fix for enhancing concentration;”
Whole wheat – Vitamin B “important for brain function;”
Avocado – Monounsaturated fats “may help enhance blood flow to the brain” and
Eggs – Choline “may help memory development.”

The 10 recipes were as follows:

Farfalle with Zucchini and Parsley-Almond Pesto

Grilled Salmon with Preserved Lemon and Green Olives

Deep, Dark Chocolate Pudding

Honeyed Yogurt and Blueberry Tart with Ginger Crust

Avocado & Onion Salad

Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries

Spanish Mackerel Escabèche

Linguine with Escarole, Tuna and Sun-dried Tomato Sauce

Hard-Cooked Eggs with Crisp Anchovy Crumbs

Tuna Scallopine with Parsley and Pomegranate Seeds

I can’t guarantee these recipes will elevate you to prodigy status, but a little scrumptious health and brain power never hurt anyone.

I bet Jake and Reese eat these dishes.