14 Simple Ways to Turn Your Meal Into an Aphrodisiac

This plump fruit is packed with amino acids involved in the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow to sex organs. And that's vital for getting aroused, says Meryl Rosofsky, MD and adjunct professor of Food Studies at New York University. "It causes penile and clitoral erection, vaginal lubrication and other parts of the sexual cascade, from desire to orgasm," she explains. Adding two to three figs to your smoothie will take it from a refreshing beverage to an erotic libation. Try a milk-banana-fig combo with honey for a double dose of aphrodisiacs.

Later, lettuce. Stack spinach on your patty instead. "It's a nutrient powerhouse, offering the mineral magnesium, which relaxes arteries and promotes blood flow to the genitals," says Virgin. "Optimal blood flow means more stimulation and stronger erections." Plus, one study showed that magnesium increases testosterone levels in men, adds Virgin. Magnesium also calms the body and ups your energy—two key components for a successful romp.

Salads are already a warm-weather staple; toss in walnuts and extra-steamy nights may be ahead. "They're a great source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, and good heart function promotes great sex and functioning loins," says Dr. Rosofsky. Bonus: They're natural anti-depressants, keeping you in a good mood for good sex. A handful of walnuts, which contains more than 2,500 mg of omega-3s, is plenty.

Forget about frying your rice. Elevate your grains in a healthier, racier way. Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants, which increase arterial blood flow to the brain, heart and genitals, according to Virgin. And you know what that can do! Add ½ cup of pomegranate seeds for each cup of rice for some sweet zest that'll carry over to post-dinner fun. Works just as well with quinoa and other grains.

If the best part of waking up is a potential quickie, consider sweetening your cup of joe. "Vanilla's calming, pleasant scent can lower cortisol levels and relax your nervous system, which is crucial for getting in the mood," says Virgin. "Vanilla's scent also can stimulate you sexually." Besides, coffee's energy-boosting properties make it a libido enhancer on its own—that's a two-in-one boost for your morning lovemaking.

OK, your favorite pizzeria probably doesn't offer arugula as a standard topping, but there's good reason to add some once your pie arrives: The leafy green's filled with phytochemicals and antioxidants that block libido-zapping toxins. What's more: "A generous mound of arugula contains nearly 25% of the recommended daily value of folic acid, a B vitamin with beneficial effects on fertility, neurologic function and red blood cell production," says Dr. Rosofsky. Foods that do that make you feel sexier, raising desire, she explains.

Bivalves aren't just a fun appetizer to enjoy with a glass of bubbly. The mollusks are said to assist with testosterone production and spermatogenesis because of the zinc found in them. Amino acids and serotonin may also come into play, encouraging a pleasure response in our neural pathway. If slurping down raw ones with your significant other doesn't sound appealing, don't fret. "Dip them in a corneal batter and fry them up, then serve them with a spicy cocktail sauce," says Kathleen Schaffer, Culinary Innovator and Creative Director at L.A. catering company, Schaffer. "The Capsaicin in cayenne pepper may increase your heart rate and help to put you in the mood."

"There is nothing sexier to me than a decadent spoonful of caviar on a buttery piece of toasted brioche," says Schaffer. Turns out, the pricey fish eggs can also lend a hand in boosting your libido, providing and extra dose of energy thanks to its zinc and protein content. The amino acid L-arginine may also increase blood flow, which could have you feeling frisky. If caviar toast or classic blinis don't sound filling enough, make a meal out of it by adding a spoonful atop a fluffy omelette on date night, or for a sensual breakfast-in-bed.

Eating a romantic pasta dinner already has some lovey dovey appeal thanks to Lady and the Tramp, but if you want to turn up the heat, sea urchin could be the secret ingredient you're searching for. Rich, buttery, briny uni is a Japanese delicacy, often considered to be an aphrodisiac, and it makes a killer addition to a sexy pasta dish. "My husband Charlie knows that his squid ink spaghetti with sea urchin butter, roasted garlic and lemon is a direct way to my heart. It may be the single biggest reason we have been married for this long!" says Schaffer.

If you're making dinner for someone special, it's usually a good idea to whip up a chocolatey treat to go with it. In addition to ending the meal on a sweet note, you'll both get a dose of theobromine from your decadent dessert, which helps your brain produce serotonin that will keep the good vibes going. Go for dark chocolate to enjoy the added bonus of antioxidants.