Reimagining Aphrodisiacs
Food as an aphrodisiac is steeped in lore. Perhaps most famous are oysters, but many foods have been employed as “spicy” turn-on companions. Figs are traditionally associated with fertility, as is the shapely form of the pear and the abundant seeds of the pomegranate. But did you know that saffron, pistachios, and maca root may all have aphrodisiac properties, too?
While not all these claims are backed by evidence, some of the nutrients contained in our favourite aphrodisiac foods may lend credence to their arousing reputations.
Zinc, which is found in rich quantities in oysters and mussels, plays a role in sexual function, helping to regulate and maintain testosterone levels, while chocolate’s phenylethylamine compound can enhance mood and feelings of pleasure. Beyond these effects, both foods contain nutrients that support our overall health, which is sexy in itself.
What’s more certain is that sharing beautiful, sensuous ingredients that awaken the senses can make us feel good. Savouring rich flavours and velvety textures and discovering new ingredients can be a wonderful way to set the tone for playful discoveries of all kinds. And when those ingredients also hold health benefits and are shared with someone you love, what could be more tempting to set the scene for an intimate evening?
Read on to discover five recipes for sexy meals to share that are packed with benefits―and guaranteed to bring pleasure.
Sensuous textures and flavours come together in this impressive pancake, perfect for a sultry dinner for two with enough leftovers to eat for breakfast the next day. Easy to incorporate, figs are seared in butter and then bathed in an eggy batter poured into a hot pan. The batter rises impressively in the oven, and the rich berry flavours of the figs are boosted with tangy goat cheese and pieces of raw honeycomb sprinkled with chili flakes.
Lean into your adventurous side and prepare carpaccio at home with this easy-to-make and satisfying dish that’s perfect for two. Pounded thin and drizzled in a bright dressing of pomegranate molasses, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, the final product is topped with fresh arugula and pomegranate seeds for a tart and tangy flavour burst.
Silken tofu certainly lives up to its name in this silky-soft pudding flavoured with seductively rich chocolate. This sexy, protein-packed treat gets an extra boost of love with potassium-rich maca root, which is thought to have mood- and libido-boosting powers. The maca root lends a slight butterscotch flavour to the pudding, which also gets a shot of cinnamon and cayenne. When topped with a cherry compote, the result is a luscious and creamy delight.
This collection was originally published in the February 2026 issue of alive magazine.
