Food for "the Mood"

Bite This: The word Aphrodisiac came from Aphrodite, the Greek Goddess of love, beauty and procreation.  Even before the 17th century, people have turned to foods to enhance their fertility and desire. In the 13th century, red meat and wine were considered to be an aphrodisiac because of the good nutrition and "vital spirit."

Forget Viagra and Cialis this Valentine's Day. Certain foods can be just as...ahem...efficient at making things work. I am sure it is common knowledge about the power that oysters are believed to possess. But there are others! Yes, the secret lies within the food you eat! What foods add pizazz to your passion?
1. Asparagus - in the 19th century, asparagus was given in 3 different courses to the bride and groom before their nuptials. The folic acid boosts histamine production necessary for...um...pleasure?
2. Almonds - bonus!! They're good for the heart as well. The vitamin E, magnesium and fiber light the fire for women.  Subconsciously maybe, as the almond has been a sign for fertility.
3. Avocados - another one for the heart! (See a connection? Heart= desire) Folic acid, potassium and vitamin B6 make this one a winner.  Catholic priests in Spain forbade avocados for their provocative shape.
4. Bananas. Yes, we've all seen movies with suggestive material with women and bananas. But bananas are loaded with potassium, magnesium and B-vitamins as well as an enzyme to enhance male libido.
5. Basil - something with the scent makes this one on the list. Not sure about it, but try it. The Italians do.
6. Garlic/onions - okay, so your breath may not be sexy after eating this, but onions and garlic contain a compound (allicin) that boosts male libido.
7. Figs - Think Adam and Eve and fig leaves.
8. Chocolate - No wonder this gift has been associated with romance and Valentine's day. Chocolate contains a compound which releases dopamine in the pleasure centers of the brain.
9. Carrots - hmmm...a phallic symbol? High in vitamin A, this just might do something for men.
10. Licorice - used in Chinese medicine. Chewing on licorice enhances the woman's desire.
11. Honey- used in Egyptian times for sterility and impotence. Honey contains boron which may enhance testosterone in men and women also enhancing desire.
12. Wine - pretty much just makes men and women relaxed enough to shed their clothes. Again, moderation!!! We all know what happens when too much wine is involved. :)

So there it is, folks. Try it out and spice up the romance in your marriage.

Sound Bite: Try making a Valentine's meal including at least 3 of these foods.

Tortellini with Cream Rose Sauce (from Kraft.com)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1 1/2 cup chicken broth
1 package refrigerated tortellini
1 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup cream cheese or Philadelphia cooking creme
handful of spinach
a few basil leaves
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Add olive oil to skillet. Cook onion and garlic until tender. Add chicken broth and marinara sauce and boil. Once boiling, add tortellini. Cover and cook 5 minutes. Add cream cheese and cook and stir 3-5 minutes. Cover and cook 5 more minutes until pasta is tender. Stir in spinach and basil and cook just until wilted. Top with Parmesan.

For dessert - chocolate covered strawberries and bananas