Here are six recipes that may help spark Valentine’s Day romance.
SALTED DARK CHOCOLATE PUDDING
Chocolate is chock-full of chemicals that boost serotonin, which creates a warm, pleasurable feeling. This recipe calls for chocolate that contains at least 60 percent cacao. I recommend bumping it up to a minimum of 72 percent. Sea salt helps bring out the flavor of the chocolate so you can enjoy it even more. Serve the pudding while it is still warm or chill in the fridge. It is incredibly sensuous either way. For extra indulgence, top with a dollop of real whipped cream.
S’MORES-STUFFED STRAWBERRIES
Maybe because strawberries resemble little red hearts is why they've always been associated with Venus, the Roman goddess of love. They contain lots of vitamin C, which improves circulation. Combine them with chocolate in this recipe and love will be in the air — in fact, you may have some, then want some more.
SRIRACHA-SPIKED HUMMUS
Hot peppers are indeed the spice of life. They contain capsaicin, which helps with circulation. Eating them causes the body to release endorphins, which create surges of pleasure and happy thoughts. Hot peppers will also cause lips and other sensitive body parts to swell. According to legend, Montezuma drank chocolate laced with hot peppers before visiting his concubines.
This hummus has a luxurious mouth-feel. Serve it with your favorite crackers or breads.
AVOCADO AND CHOCOLATE CHIP POUND CAKE
The ancient Aztecs honored the avocado tree, believing that its fruit shaped like male sex organs boosts the libido. It turns out that avocado is rich in vitamin E, which is nicknamed the sex vitamin because it aids in hormone production.
This pound cake combines avocado and chocolate. The texture is smooth and springy, thanks to all those heart-healthy monosaturated fats in the avocado. Combining avocado and chocolate chips is a little kinky — try it only if you're a culinary adventurer.
PLENTIFUL PESTO NOODLES
Giggle if you must about the shape of a zucchini, but it contains manganese which enhances circulation and other nutrients that helps prostate function. This recipe combines zucchini “noodles” with zinc-rich pine nuts, which, since the Middle Ages, have been consumed to boost the libido.
This lovely dish is perfect for raw food lovers.
APPLES AND POMEGRANATE WITH YOGURT AND TOASTED QUINOA
According to ancient legend, the first pomegranate tree planted was by none other than Aphrodite herself. Pomegranates are considered superfoods because of their antioxidant properties, which increase testosterone levels and blood flow.
So colorful and tasty, and so easy to make, this beautiful, simple dish is a perfect breakfast with your special someone.
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