They say the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach, and when it comes to aphrodisiac ingredients, they may accomplish just that. Aphrodisiacs—a term derived from Aphrodite, aka the Greek goddess of love—are thought to heighten body sensations. While the jury is out on whether or not they actually work, they’re certainly delicious enough to give them a go. This Valentine’s Day, we’ve rounded up five aphrodisiac-infused recipes to help you set the mood—or at least have a delicious meal trying!
Pomegranate Prosecco Smash
We love starting any romantic meal off with a bottle of bubbly (an aphrodisiac itself, you know), and this colorful cocktail from How Sweet Eats combines inexpensive Italian prosecco with a splash of vodka and pomegranate juice and seeds—both considered major woo-worthy ingredients.
Beet and Blue Cheese Salad
Not only is their rich ruby color romantic, but beets are thought to give off some serious love vibes, as well. Which makes this salad from Food & Wine the perfect starter course for any aphrodisiac-fueled food affair. You can even roast the beets ahead of time and prep the vinegarette early, too. Simply assemble it all whenever you’re ready to eat.
BBQ Salmon with Avocado Salsa
This recipe from Pinch of Yum doesn’t call for one, but two different aphrodisiac ingredients—salmon and avocado. The mango-avocado salsa comes together in a flash and the salmon cooks quickly in the broiler under a rich layer of spice. The entire dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, giving you just enough time to pour another glass of wine before sitting down to dine with your love.
Fig Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking legend and food blogger David Lebovitz is a master of all desserts (literally—he’s written several cookbooks on the sweet subject), and these easy-to-make treats uniquely combine a host of unusual flavors and aphrodisiacs—like figs and dark chocolate—into the perfect post-meal sweet.
Almond Butter Toast with Bananas and Honey
How about breakfast in bed with your Valentine? Make sure this toast from The Modern Proper makes it on your menu. Honey is one of the oldest-known aphrodisiacs (it’s even considered a symbol of fertility in some cultures). In this recipe, it adds the perfect dose of sweetness to this fancy, almond butter-slathered banana toast.
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