Thanksgiving might not seem like a sexy holiday, but under the right circumstances, it can be pretty 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 treating yourself to a night of delicious funn, we asked the experts for libido-enhancing Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to get you in the mood for a little post-meal romance.
From aphrodisiac-infused side dishes to decadent desserts, these Thanksgiving-themed recipes will have you and your SO “gobbling” for more than just turkey.
Thanksgiving Mains
Roasted Salmon with Herbs
The centerpiece of any Thanksgiving feast is, of course, the turkey. But if you’re looking to switch things up, nutritionist and clinical research professional Bharathi Ramesh says salmon is a great libido-boosting alternative.
“Nutrient-dense meals rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential vitamins play a crucial role in enhancing blood flow, hormone regulation, and mood,” Ramesh tells FemmeFunn.
Ramesh recommends roasted salmon with herbs for a main course that breaks tradition but still feels festive. You could also do a maple-glazed salmon, honey-soy salmon, or a simple salmon roasted in butter.
“Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids that enhance circulation and vitamin D, which aids in hormone regulation,” she says. “Omega-3s improve endothelial function and nitric oxide production and are essential for maintaining vascular health and libido.”
Roasted Turkey Breast with Fresh Herbs
If you prefer conventional Thanksgiving food, turkey is still a good option.
“Turkey is a quality source of lean protein, which helps maintain stable energy levels without causing blood sugar spikes,” registered dietician and nutrition writer for Living.Fit, Catherine Gervacio, tells FemmeFunn. “It also contains the amino acid L-arginine, which may improve blood flow by relaxing blood vessels — to put sciences behind this, L-arginine is a precursor to nitric oxide, a compound that promotes blood vessel dilation, making blood flow improvements beneficial for sexual health.”
Pro tip: Try marinating the turkey breast in a mixture of fresh herbs, like thyme (which has been shown to improve ED in some men) and sage (for its potential mood-elevating properties) before roasting.
Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Sweet Potato Mash with Cinnamon
Sweet potatoes are a classic Thanksgiving staple, but did you know they double as a libido booster?
“Sweet potatoes are rich in potassium, which regulates blood pressure, while cinnamon improves circulation,” says Ramesh. “Potassium helps counteract sodium to reduce hypertension, ensuring optimal blood flow.”
And, as you know, improved blood flow = better sex(ual 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 ‘em with a small amount of almond milk, sprinkle some cinnamon, and drizzle a bit of honey.
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Oyster Stuffing
This wouldn’t really be a libido-driven Thanksgiving spread without at least mentioning oysters. While these slightly slimy-looking shellfish aren’t for everyone, they’re undoubtedly one of the most famous natural aphrodisiacs.
“Oysters are high in zinc, which supports testosterone production and healthy libido for both men and women,” registered nutritional therapist Helen Perks tells FemmeFunn. “Zinc also helps the immune system and cellular repair, which is key during the holiday season.”
Perks suggests incorporating oysters into your Thanksgiving stuffing for a sexy twist on a classic side.
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Honey-Glazed Roasted Root Vegetables
Veggies 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 they’re drizzled in honey.
“Honey has long been revered as a natural aphrodisiac, thanks to its ability to increase nitric oxide levels, which enhance blood flow and improve sexual arousal,” says Perks. “Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes provide slow-releasing energy, ensuring stamina and vitality, while their rich vitamin content nourishes overall health, creating the perfect foundation for a heightened libido.”
If you’re looking for 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 honey for a side dish that’s almost as satisfying as dessert.
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Thanksgiving Desserts
Dark Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Chocolate-dipped strawberries work just as good on Thanksgiving as they do on Valentine’s Day.
“Dark chocolate contains flavonoids that promote relaxation and circulation, and strawberries add vitamin C to enhance antioxidant activity,” says Ramesh.
All you have to do is melt 70% dark chocolate, dip freshly washed strawberries halfway, and let them cool on parchment paper until set. Ramesh recommends garnishing your sweet treats with chopped pistachios for added nutrients.
Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is another Thanksgiving staple — so why not elevate it 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 enhance mood, reduce stress, and increase sexual desire by 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, some nutmeg, brown sugar or coconut sugar, eggs, and heavy cream.
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Spiced Cranberry Mocktail
Alcohol can actually have the opposite effect on libido, so if you want to keep things romantic, Perks recommends whipping up a cranberry-based mocktail instead of serving up cocktails.
“Cranberries are renowned 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 urinary tract walls, thereby reducing the risk of infections that could interfere with sexual activity.”
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