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Bay Leaf: That green headband around Ceasar's head was bay, and it has a long and glorious culinary history in Mediterranean countries.
Bay can be bitter when fresh, so let it dry for a few days if you pluck it green from the tree. After drying, it keeps nicely in an airtight jar. It gives up its flavor slowly, which is why you add it to the beginning of slow-cooked soups and stews. It has a slightly musty aroma with shades of nutmeg that can overpower a dish, so only use half a leaf for each serving. Don't forget to pull them out before serving!

Garlic: Garlic is in the same family as onions and leeks, and purportedly provided ancient Roman soldiers the courage to battle the barbarians. Whether or not it gives you courage, it is known to lower blood pressure, which is great for your heart and helps prevent stroke. In addition, it has a long history as a digestive aid, so don't be shy with this wonderful herb, no matter what it does to your breath!
heart healthy, lowers blood pressure, prevents stroke, lowers bad cholesterol

Thyme: This aromatic herb has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties and contains thymol, a well-known antiseptic (you might be gargling with it). It's good for the digestion and is supposed to have some aphrodisiac qualities, although that just may be be due to the well-known connection between love and good food.
helps prevent inflammation

Recipe

Mashed Potato, Rutabaga and Parsnip Casserole with Caramelized onions

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 75

ingredients

3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1.5 inch pieces
1 1/2 pounds rutabagas, peeled, cut into 0.5 inch pieces
1 1/4 pounds parsnips, peeled, cut into 1.5 inch pieces
8 garlic cloves
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
3 large onions, thinly sliced

directions

Butter 13 each 9x2 inch glass baking dish. Combine first 7 ingredients in large pot, bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover partially and simmer until vegetables are very tender, about 30 minutes. Drain well. Transfer vegetables to large bowl. Add 1/2 cup butter. Using electric mixer, beat mixture until mashed but still chunky. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer mashed vegetables to prepared dish.

Melt remaining 1/4 cup butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and saute until beginning to brown, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-low and saute until onions are tender and golden brown, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Spread onions evenly over mashed vegetables. (Casserole can be prepared up to 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake casserole uncovered until heated through and top begins to crisp, about 25 minutes.