Aphrodisiacs: Gambas al Ajillo (Garlicky Shrimp)

Chilies may in fact spice up your sex life. They contain capsaicin (the spicy factor in peppers). The spiciness tricks your body into believing it has been harmed. This raises the heart rate and possibly triggers the release of endorphins giving you the pleasure of a natural high.

"Shrimp provide iodine, which is essential to the thyroid and basal (your normal) metabolism. Iodine deficiency has been documented as reducing sex drive. Like many forms of seafood, they offer omega-3 fatty acids - great for circulation and vital in the battle against aging. Shrimp also offer a serving of iron and zinc. Best of all, shrimp protein breaks down in the body to the amino acid phenylalanine, proven to increase levels of sex drive-boosting neurotransmitters in the brain."(From eatsomethingsexy.com)

Ingredients:
2 pounds large shrimp in shell, peeled, leaving tail and first segment of shell intact, and de-veined
10 large garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/4 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Accompaniment: lemon wedges

Pat shrimp dry. Cook garlic, red pepper flakes, and sea salt in oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until garlic is pale golden, 4 to 5 minutes. Increase heat to moderately high, then add shrimp and sauté, turning occasionally, until shrimp are just cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, then transfer to a serving bowl. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Recipe from Epicurious.com