Boost your libido and enjoy a romantic meal for two with these aphrodisiac vegan Valentine’s recipes that are made for lovers
Are you feeling in the mood for romance? One of the nicest ways to show someone how much you care is by taking the time to cook them a homemade meal.
So, why not show someone you love them by treating them to some of these stunning vegan Valentine’s Day recipes?
What are aphrodisiacs?
Aphrodisiacs are substances that are believed to enhance sexual desire or arousal, so incorporating them into your Valentine’s meal is a great way to set the mood.
They work by influencing our hormone levels1, and boosting circulation2 to improve sexual function, and have even been associated with the release of neurotransmitters in the brain3 that play a role in mood and pleasure.
Here are some vegan foods that have been considered aphrodisiacs:
- Chocolate
- Strawberries
- Avocado
- Asparagus
- Bananas
- Almonds
- Onions
- Figs
- Cinnamon
- Pomegranate
- Beetroot
- Coffee
- Artichokes
- Maca
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1. Vegan Pink Champagne Cupcakes
Crack open the bubbly and pour a glass to toast your love this Valentine’s Day – just make sure you save some for these cupcakes!
Packed with freeze-dried strawberries and strawberry jam to really infuse them with the fruity goodness of strawberries, you’re bound to get a smooth from the happy recipient of these vegan cupcakes.
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2. Vegan Salted Chocolate Fondant
Throughout history, chocolate has been revered as a symbol of romance, with its rich flavour becoming associated with indulgence and passion.
Widely considered an aphrodisiac, chocolate’s reputation traces back to ancient civilisations, where it was believed to possess mood-enhancing properties and has since maintained its allure in various cultural traditions as a sweet and sensuous treat linked to love and desire.
In fact, Aztec emperor Montezuma is said to have consumed vast quantities to help him keep his many wives satisfied in the bedroom4.
If you’re planning a night of passion, this rich and indulgent chocolate fondant is the perfect way to get both parties in the mood.
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3. Vegan Beetroot Ravioli with Almond Ricotta & Chives
With its deeply vibrant colour and earthy taste, it’s no surprise that beetroot have been used since the times of the Ancient Romans to give a boost in the bedroom.
Romans believed that consuming their juice contained powerful aphrodisiac properties, and historians have even discovered frescos of beetroots decorating the brothel walls in Pompeii5.
According to the science, beetroots are rich in boron, a mineral that is believed to support the production of sex hormones in the human body, potentially contributing to increased libido and overall sexual health6.
Once of our favourite ways to enjoy them is with this beetroot ravioli recipe which is sure to impress with it’s stunning presentation.
4. Vegan & Gluten-Free Red Velvet Cake
No cake screams romance quite like a red velvet cake. With its rich cocoa flavour and enticing red hue, it’s the ideal vegan recipe for a spot of Valentine’s Day baking.
Containing three potent aphrodisiacs (beetroot, chocolate and strawberries), there is no better recipe to get you feeling frisky!
Nitrate-rich beetroot helps improves blood flow7 where you need it, so enjoy a big slice of this before you head to the bedroom.
5. Vegan Strawberry Mousse Cake
Thanks to their heart-shape, strawberries were once considered a symbol of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. Ancient Greeks forbade eating them lest they incur the wrath of the gods, which led people to believe these sweet berries held mystical properties.
Although that may not not possess any magical powers, they are packed with antioxidants and phytochemicals to help nourish the body8, potentially positively impacting sexual health.
Either way, their succulently sweet flavour and romantic red colour makes them the perfect ingredient to enjoy on Valentine’s Day. Let them shine with this light and airy cake that will make you feel like you’re walking on Cloud 9.
6. Vegan Cheese & Onion Tarte Tatin
While onions are not commonly considered traditional aphrodisiacs, they have historical significance in certain cultures as symbols of love and fertility. Ancient Egyptians revered onions for their concentric layers, associating them with eternal love and unity.
In Medieval times, onions were incorporated into love potions9, and their pungent aroma was thought to ignite passion.
If you’re looking to ignite the spark this Valentine’s Day, this flavoursome vegan tarte tatin recipe is perfect for feasting on. Just make sure you brush your teeth before locking lips to get rid of any onion breath!
7. Vegan Chocolate Chia Fudge with Pecans and Almonds
Almonds are historically associated with fertility and romance and were often given as a gift at weddings to wish the couple good fortune in starting a family in ancient Roman times10.
The nutrient-rich profile of almonds, including vitamin E and zinc, may have contributed to their reputation as a symbol of love and fertility in various cultural contexts throughout history.
This Valentine’s Day, why not make your own homemade gifts as a symbol of your love with this wholesome vegan fudge recipe.
8. Vegan Cannelloni with Spinach & Almond Ricotta
Spinach is said to be a natural viagra as it’s rich in folate, a B-vitamin that helps support the production of nitric oxide in the body11. Nitric oxide is a compound that relaxes blood vessels, promoting better blood flow, including to the genital area for around eight hours.
A generous helping of this cannelloni made with both spinach and almonds will help boost your arousal levels and keep you going all night long!
9. Raspberry, Chocolate & Almond Tartlets
Renowned Italian writer Casanova, famous for his amorous escapades, reportedly consumed chocolate to enhance his virility and charm, dubbing it the “elixir of love.”12
As one of the most famous lovers in history, take a leaf out of his book this Valentine’s Day with this tempting vegan recipe that promises a sensual eating experience.
10. Vegan Mushroom Risotto with Leek and Asparagus
The ancient Greeks and Romans believed in the aphrodisiac qualities of asparagus, and its phallic shape contributed to its reputation as a symbol of love13.
Additionally, in 19th-century France, bridegrooms were customarily served three courses of asparagus the day before their weddings, as it was believed to enhance both their virility and performance on the wedding night.
Interestingly, studies have shown that asparagus extract may improve sperm count in men14, while its high levels of vitamin E help promote healthy ovulation in women15. Combined with the potent health properties of mushrooms, this is a delicious dish to enjoy before you get busy in the sheets.
11. Vegan Beetroot Steak with Shallot Puree & Asparagus
This sublime starter contains beetroot, onion and asparagus – three ingredients which are said to have aphrodisiac properties.
Not only does it incorporate ingredients associated with aphrodisiac properties, but it also offers a visually stunning presentation, making it an ideal choice for a romantic Valentine’s Day celebration.
The combination of earthy beetroot “steaks,” the richness of shallot puree, and the tender asparagus creates a flavourful and sensuous dish that caters to both the palate and the heart, setting the stage for a memorable and indulgent vegan Valentine’s Day feast.
12. Pomegranate and Yoghurt Vegan Panna Cotta
In Greek mythology, the pomegranate was considered a symbol of passion and commitment, often linked to the goddess of love, Aphrodite16.
The luscious, jewel-like seeds of the pomegranate, with their sweet and tart flavour, have continued to be embraced as a romantic and aphrodisiac fruit, adding a touch of sensual delight to culinary creations and love potions throughout various cultures and centuries.
Here, the pair beautifully with the creamy yoghurt in this panna cotta recipe that’s deliciously divine.
13. Vegan Mocha Cupcakes
Need a boost of energy to prologue the Valentine’s Day fun? This chocolate and coffee infused cupcake is guaranteed to spark the flames of desire.
Coffee has a rich history intertwined with romance and allure, dating back to the coffeehouses of the 17th century where social connections blossomed. Known as the “Arabian wine,” coffee was embraced for its stimulating effects, fostering many amorous encounters.
It’s no surprise why coffee is thought to be an aphrodisiac because it contains caffeine which gets the heart pumping and increases blood flow.
14. No-Churn Vegan Strawberry Ice Cream
This dreamy strawberry ice cream is the ultimate sensual symphony with its creamy texture and fruity flavour.
Imagine sweet strawberries caressing your taste buds and melting into a playful rendezvous, where every lick becomes an invitation to explore. Whether you’re blowing hot whispers or relishing the frosty sensations, this tantalising dessert makes a wonderful finale to any Valentine’s Day meal.
15. Easy Vegan Artichoke Pithivier
Greek philosopher and naturalist Theophrastus claimed that artichokes had aphrodisiac properties, and so the ancient Greeks associated them with love and fertility.
With their labour-intensive preparation that involves peeling away layers to reach the heart, artichokes have symbolised the slow unraveling of desire. As you peel away the layers preparing this tasty pithivier, you can imagine feeling away your lovers clothes ready for a night of passion.
16. Carob & Fig Cake
Figs have a longstanding reputation as an aphrodisiac, intertwined with historical tales of sensuality and love. In ancient Greece, figs were associated with fertility and prosperity, and they were often linked to the love goddess Demeter.
Noted for their alluring sweetness, succulent texture, and erotic appearance, they were even rumoured to be Cleopatra’s favourite fruit19.
Paired with carob in this alluring recipe, this healthy vegan dessert truly is a recipe for romance as carob has long been used in Persian traditional medicine to increase human semen volume to treat male infertility20.
17. Wholemeal Vegan Beetroot Cake
This rich and earthy wholemeal vegan beetroot cake is sandwiched with a creamy almond and coconut filling to make a wonderful centrepiece for any Valentine’s dinner.
A slice of this nourishing cake is guaranteed to set hearts a flutter as not only does it contain beetroot, but it’s flavoured with cinnamon. For centuries, this potent aphrodisiac has been used in various rituals and concoctions to ignite passion and kindle the flames of love, making it the perfect ingredient to add a little spice to your love life.
18. Mini Strawberry Tarts
Small, but perfectly formed, these tiny tarts are the perfect indulgence to finish your Valentine’s meal. Made with real strawberry purée and decorated with fresh strawberries, they’re as delicious as they are pretty.
The secret ingredient that gives the filling its creamy texture is cashes which are rich and zinc to boost blood flow to sexual organs21. Their small size is just enough to ensure you’re raring to go for a night of passion, without feeling too full to function.
19. Chocolate and Maca Tart with Pistachio Base
Unlock the secrets of seduction with this tantalising tart, featuring three renowned aphrodisiac ingredients – pistachios, maca, and chocolate.
Pistachios are believed to enhance energy and vitality as they contain several essential nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being.
Maca, a revered Peruvian root known for its adaptogenic properties, is thought to support stamina and hormonal balance22 – just what your body needs before a night between the sheets!
Combined with dark chocolate, celebrated throughout history as a symbol of pleasure, this tart becomes a sensual masterpiece that promises to ignite passion and infuse your Valentine’s Day with an extra touch of romance.
20. Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Truffles
Few foods are quite as sensual and romantic as chocolate-covered strawberries. We’ve elevated this simple recipe by blending fresh strawberries with oats to create a fruity centred enrobed in dark chocolate.
Hand-feeding your lover these tempting truffles is a surefire way to spark desire. Simply pop one in your mouth and let the potent properties of the ingredients go to work.
21. Vegan Beetroot and Thyme Cream Cheese Terrine
This eye-catching vegan terrine is the perfect romantic centrepiece with its bold colour and creamy centre. As beetroot is high in boron, tryptophan and betaine, this elegant terrine will leave you feeling relaxed as well as boosting your wellbeing and stamina for the evening’s activities.
22. Vegan Chocolate Caramel Fondue with Homemade Marshmallows and Honeycomb
Bring your Valentine’s dinner to the ultimate crescendo with this sinfully indulgent vegan chocolate fondue. You can’t help but get up close and personal when you share this intimate treat.
Served with homemade vegan marshmallows and honeycomb, the mix of sinfully indulgent flavours and tempting textures will seduce your senses.
Searching for the perfect gift for your beloved? They’ll love these romantic vegan Valentine’s gifts.