Why Garlic?
I get this question often, Why “For The Love of Garlic” ?
So, let me tell you…
The Name Story
Truth is, I struggled to name this site.
I knew I wanted something that captured how I feel about cooking – passionate, a little obsessed, completely unapologetic about flavor.
I love garlic. I mean, I put it in everything. Well, except desserts. (though I’ve been tempted.)
I was scrolling through recipe sites one day, trying to get inspired, and came across “Love & Lemons”. Something clicked.
“For The Love of Garlic”.
That was it. Because I literally do love garlic. More than any recipe ever calls for.
My Garlic Philosophy
Here’s the thing: more is more.
I don’t do bland. I don’t do tasteless ‘diet versions’ that leave you unsatisfied. I don’t compromise on flavor just because I’m trying to eat well.
When a recipe says, “2 cloves of garlic”, I start with 2 jumbo cloves or 4 regular size cloves.
Real food should smell amazing. It should make you excited to be in the kitchen. It should taste so good you actually want to eat it, not suffer through it because it’s “healthy”.
That’s my philosophy. Flavor without fear. Joy in the kitchen. Food that serves your body and your soul.
The Happy Bonus
Oh, and by the way? All that garlic I’m loading into these recipes? Turns out my obsession is also good for most*. Win-win!
It’s not why I do it, I do it for taste, but it’s a pretty great bonus: anti-inflammatory benefits, immune support, heart health, blood pressure regulation, natural antibiotic properties, and better digestion.
*It’s important to note that garlic isn’t for everyone – if you have certain health conditions or take specific medications, check with your doctor. But for most people, it’s a delicious health boost.
The Connection
This philosophy – flavor, balance, real food, no restriction. It isn’t just how I cook… It’s how I live.
It’s how I lost 110 pounds naturally at 60 and actually kept it off after 30 years of yo-yo dieting.
It’s the foundation of what I now call “Christine’s 80·20 life ✨”.
Whether it’s recipes or weight loss coaching, I’m about the same thing: Living well, not suffering through restriction.
You can enjoy food. You can celebrate with meals. You can use all the garlic your heart desires.
And you can still take care of yourself.
A Love That Spreads
My love of garlic has become a bit of a family thing.
My older son brought me this garlic plate from France.
He saw it and thought of me… that’s a pretty special gift.
All three of my kids have inherited my love of cooking in their own ways.
My older son has become an incredible cook; his Signature Spicy Wings are legendary in our family.
My daughter loves to bake. My younger son experiments in the kitchen too.
Food has become our family’s love language. Or at least mine.
We celebrate with big feasts. We gather around the table.
We share recipes and text each other about what we’re making for dinner.
This site and my love of garlic is really about that.
Connection. Joy. Sharing something delicious with people you love!