Garlic, onion, 'and eek leek' - Part I

The etymology of garlic

The genus that comprises onions, shallots, scallions, leeks and chives is called Allium, and the type-species (in other words the plant which gives the genus its name) is allium sativa, the cultivated garlic. Fans of Italian cuisine will immediately recognize the Latin name in aglio e olio, the classic Neapolitan pasta dish made with garlic and oil.

The…