Thanksgiving may not be look like a sexy vacation, but under the right conditions, it can be quite hot. With the right attitude and a few ~strategic~ ingredients, you can turn your Thanksgiving dinner into a feast for the senses.
Whether you’re cooking for a partner or just enjoying a delicious night out platewe asked the experts for libido-boosting Thanksgiving recipes sure to get you in the mood for some post-dinner romance.
From aphrodisiacally infused accompanied by decadent desserts, these Thanksgiving-themed recipes will have you “devouring” more than just turkey.
Thanksgiving Day
Grilled salmon with herbs
The centerpiece of any Thanksgiving feast is, of course, the turkey. But if you want to change things, nutritionist and clinical research professional Bharathi Ramesh he says the salmon is great stimulation of libido alternative.
“Nutrient-rich meals rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential vitamins play a critical role in boosting blood flow, hormone regulation, and mood,” Ramesh tells FemmeFunn.
Ramesh recommends the herb-roasted salmon for a main course that breaks with tradition but still feels festive. You could also make a maple salmon, honey-soy salmon, or a simple butter-roasted Aslmon.
“Salmon is packed with circulation-boosting omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, which helps regulate hormones,” she says. “Omega-3s improve endothelial function and nitric oxide production and are essential for maintaining vascular health and libido.”
Roast turkey breast with fresh herbs
If you prefer conventional food for Thanksgiving, turkey is still a good choice.
“Turkey is a quality source of lean protein, which helps maintain stable energy levels without causing spikes in blood sugar,” said nutritionist and nutrition writer for Living.Fit, Catherine Gervacio, tells FemmeFunn. “It also contains the amino acid L-arginine, which can improve blood flow by relaxing blood vessels—to put the science behind it, L-arginine is a precursor to nitric oxide, a compound that promotes dilation of blood vessels, making improvements in blood flow beneficial for sexual health.”
Pro tip: Try marinating the turkey breast in a blend of fresh herbs, such as thyme (which has been shown to ED improvement in some men) and sage (for the potential mood-elevating properties) before baking.
Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Mashed sweet potatoes with cinnamon
Sweet potatoes are a classic Thanksgiving staple, but did you know they also double as a libido booster?
“Sweet potatoes are rich in potassium, which regulates blood pressure, while cinnamon improves circulation,” says Ramesh. “Potassium helps neutralize sodium to reduce hypertension, ensuring optimal blood flow.”
And, as you know, improved blood flow = better sex (actual function). For a little crunch (and antioxidants), Ramesh recommends adding pecans — a nut known for its high zinc content. (I’d definitely recommend the sweet and spicy variety from Trader Joe’s for a little kick.)
To make this dish, steam some sweet potatoes, mash them with a small amount of almond milk, sprinkle some cinnamon and drizzle with some honey.
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Stuffed with oysters
This would not be really to be a libido-driven Thanksgiving spread without at least mentioning oysters. While these slightly slimy shellfish aren’t for everyone, they are undoubtedly one of the most famous natural aphrodisiacs.
“Oysters are high in zinc, which supports testosterone production and a healthy libido for both men and women,” registered nutritionist Helen Perks says FemmeFunn. “Zinc also aids the immune system and cell repair, which is key during the festive season.”
Perks suggests incorporating oysters into your Thanksgiving stuffing for a sexy twist on a classic side.
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Roasted root vegetables with honey
Vegetables don’t have to be boring – with the right seasonings and cooking methods, they can be just as sensual as any other dish, especially if you drizzle them with honey.
“Honey has long been revered as a natural aphrodisiacthanks to its ability to increase nitric oxide levels, which boost blood flow and improve sexual arousal,” says Perks. “Root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips and sweet potatoes provide slow-release energy, ensuring stamina and vitality, while their rich vitamin content nourishes overall health, creating the perfect foundation for increased libido.”
If you’re looking for just the right balance of sweet and savory, try roasting a mix of carrots, parsnips and sweet potatoes with olive oil, garlic and a generous drizzle of beer honey for a side dish that’s almost as satisfying as dessert.
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Thanksgiving Desserts
Strawberries dipped in dark chocolate
Chocolate-dipped strawberries work just as well on Thanksgiving as they do on Valentine’s Day.
“Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that promote relaxation and circulation and strawberries add vitamin C to boost antioxidant activity,” says Ramesh.
All you have to do is melt 70% dark chocolate, dip freshly washed strawberries halfway through and let them cool on parchment paper until set. Ramesh recommends topping your sweet treats with chopped pistachios for added nutrients.
Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is another Thanksgiving staple — so why not kick it up a notch with some aphrodisiac-rich ingredients? For a sensual twist on this holiday classic, Perks suggests incorporating dark chocolate into the mix.
“Dark chocolate boosts serotonin and dopamine levels, which boost mood, reduce anxiety and increase sexual desire promoting relaxation and intimacy,” Perks tells FemmeFunn.
To make this sinfully delicious dessert, you’ll need pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), dark chocolate chips, a pinch of cinnamon, a little nutmeg, brown sugar or coconut sugar, eggs, and heavy cream.
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Spiced Cranberry Mocktail
Alcohol can really have the opposite effect about libido, so if you want to keep things romantic, Perks recommends making a cranberry-based mocktail instead of serving cocktails.
“Cranberries are known for their role in supporting urinary tract health, which can indirectly benefit reproductive health and libido,” says Perks. “They contain proanthocyanidins, compounds that prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, thus reducing the risk of infections that could affect sexual activity.”
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