Christianne Klein Shows CBS 2 Valentine's Day Foods That Function As Aphrodisiacs
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - Christianne Klein, author of Christianne's Herbal Kitchen: Fresh Herb Recipes for Body and Soul, stopped by CBS 2 to cook up some food she says are aphrodisiacs. For more information about her, click here.
Here are her recommendations.
Foods to Boost Your Love Life
Pesto Pasta- contains Basil, Garlic, Pine Nuts
- Basil- In Ancient Rome, basil was considered a "symbol of love". Basil increases circulation which helped lead to its reputation as an aphrodisiac.
- Garlic - Can increase circulation and blood flow which may lead to increased sexual performance.
- Pine Nuts - Rich in Zinc which is essential for male potency. Zinc has also been used in love potions for centuries.
Fresh Berries with Honey Lavender-Vanilla Cream
- Raspberries- known as "fruit nipples." Raspberries are a sensual fruit that increases stamina and are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
- Honey- known as "The Nectar of Aphrodite." Honey is rich in B vitamins and shares an interesting and unique history. For centuries in Europe, the alcoholic beverage "mead" was supplied to newlyweds. They were given enough mead to last a month to increase fertility and happiness. It is said that this practice is where the term "honeymoon" gets its name.
- Lavender- Powerful stimulant aroma that can increase arousal in men. Lavender may also raise serotonin levels.
- Vanilla- Sensual scent believed to enhance "lust".
Champagne (with raspberry or vanilla bean inside) - known as the "drink of love." Champagne's signature bubbles help alcohol get into the bloodstream faster than "still" wine. Remember not to overdo it. Alcohol can be a depressant in large quantities.
After dinner snacks: Chocolate & Coffee
- Chocolate- powerful mood boosting stimulant. Chocolate boosts serotonin levels, releases endorphins and dopamine throughout your system. Dopamine is released when you have feelings of immense pleasure or euphoria.
- Coffee- stimulant which also can elevate mood. Again, be careful not to ingest too much caffeine. Caffeine can also lead to symptoms that mimic anxiety and increase heart rate.
Christianne's Pesto Recipe
Click here for a prinatable recipe (.pdf)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes, drained
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 servings pasta (gluten-free, if preferred)
- Sea salt to taste
- Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Preparation:
Pulse basil leaves, garlic, olive oil and pine nuts in a food processor or blender until chopped. Add lemon juice, salt and pepper. Blend until smooth. Add 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomatoes, and pulse until chopped. Place pesto mixture in a glass or other non-reactive bowl and stir in cheese. Set aside.
Cook pasta according to directions and drain well. While pasta is still hot, toss pesto mixture and remaining sun-dried tomatoes on top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
