Written by Christina of Shaking N Baking.

We all know that food tends to bring people together. Sharing the experience of a meal can bond people in a special way. I am sure you can think back to a meal or dining experience that brought you closer to another person or group. Cooking together with a special someone can take that experience to the next level, and depending on your relationship and what you decide to cook, can be quite a sensual encounter.

Cooking together allows you to get to know the other person better and can usually be a less expensive way to enjoy a meal together. Start by planning a menu that is easy enough for both of you to enjoy and promotes teamwork. Of course, if goes without saying that you should choose foods that you will both enjoy or wish to try.

If you’re in a serious, romantic relationship with the person you’ll be cooking with you may want to consider adding some aphrodisiacs to the menu. Aphrodisiacs are food or scents that arouse those special romantic feelings. According to Dr. Ava Cadill at Loveology University, here are a few aphrodisiacs that can be used for seduction:

• Oysters - Contain zinc, essential mineral for men needed for sperm production. Also releases testosterone in women.
• Shrimp - High in iodine, which is needed by the thyroid gland that regulates energy, including sexual energy.
• Chocolate - Includes caffeine and a plant substance called phytosteral that mimics human sex hormones.
• Ginger - Comes from the root of the plant & increases blood flow to the genitals in both men and women.
• Olives - Green ones make men more virile while black ones are believed to increase sex drive for women.
• Tomatoes - Known as “love apples” & forbidden by Puritans because of its reputation as a potent sexual stimulant.
• Asparagus - Rich with potassium, phosphorous, calcium, and vitamin E, all vital for increased hormone production.
• Apples - Ever since Biblical days apples have been known as the fruit of temptation. They are also filled with vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that stimulate sexual desire.

Here are a few more aphrodisiacs to help you plan your sensual menu:

• Bananas are a great source of potassium as well as other minerals and vitamins. Bananas also contain an enzyme called bromelain that enhances male sexual health.
• Honey is an easy sugar to digest and contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals that other sugars do not.
• Avocados contain vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals.
• Figs contain more minerals than most other fruits plus a good dose of fiber.
• Almonds are a source of healthy fats and vitamin E. Vitamin E is important for male sexual health.
• Pine nuts, like almonds are a good source of healthy fats and vitamin E.
• Black beans contain protein, fiber and folic acid. Black beans also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that relaxes us.
• Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C and anti-oxidants that may reduce the risk of breast cancer.
• Eggs are one of the most ancient fertility symbols. Eggs are high in B6 and B5, which help you balance hormone levels and fight stress. Raw chicken eggs eaten before sex are considered to enhance one’s libido.

Once you’ve planned your menu (see end of article for menu ideas) and gathered your ingredients start cooking. You will quickly notice that cooking together requires you to do a dance of sorts in the kitchen. Tasting and talking during the process will encourage closeness. The very act of cooking something that will be nurturing to your body will be rewarding.

Be sure to set the table to ensure the mood is continued through the meal. Unscented candles (as to not distract from the food) can be lit. Pretty table settings and cloth napkins add a touch of elegance and a “restaurant feel” as well. To encourage sharing, you could sit on the same side of the table or even forego the table and create a picnic in your living room (or bedroom!).

Of course, if you don’t want to do all the planning, you can always look for local cooking classes. In the United States there are many recreational cooking schools that offer date night menus and pricing for couples. The point is to spend time with your sweetie cooking up a delicious meal that will encourage communication and cultivate a nurturing nature between the two of you.

Enjoy with Love!
Christina of Shaking N' Baking

Starters:
Apple Walnut Dill Salad – Food2.com
Citrus Shrimp Cocktail – Steamy Kitchen on TLC
Raw Oysters on the Half Shell – Food Network
Spinach Salad with Raspberry Dressing (You may want to eliminate the red onions!) – Food Network

Entrees:
Honey Baked Chicken – About.com
Pork Tenderloin and Figs – About.com
Salmon and Asparagus in Foil Packets – About.com
Snapper with Olives, Fennel, Sausage, and Mussels – Food2.com
Steak au Poivre – About.com

Dessert:
Cinnamon Puff Pastry Napoleon with Cream Cheese Honey Filling and Figs – (The Cookie Fairy – A Daring Baker!)
Chili Chocolate-Covered Strawberries – Food Network
Naughty but Spiced Chocolate Pot – Food Network

References:
Dr. Ava Cadill at Loveology University
More Aphrodisiacs from About.com and Gayot.com
Food Network
Food2.com