Well, now, that's where you are wrong, as the two are inseparable. It is commonly known that spicy food leads elderly people to tap the ass of nearby youngsters, which is why they are fed only oatmeal.

There is an interesting point in that if the desire exists, then in a sense the action has been committed, albeit only within the mind. Often that is enough for people. However, the counter-argument is also valid in that we don't consider the thought of eating to be the same as physically eating, though like the sexual desire has, in a sense, occurred mentally, though may perhaps be less fulfilling.
Now, as we all know, eating and enjoyment of food do not necessarily go hand in hand. Often we can eat food without enjoying it, but is it possible to enjoy food without eating it? In culinary terms, the gastronomic process is really only a small part, though not insignificant. There is, of course, the presentation; the food is pleasing to look at. It could be an artful arrangement, utilizing brilliant color schemes and decorative garnishes. The first bite is with the eyes, I always hear. Not always true, though. Sometimes the scent is first. The aromas of food that is well prepared and craftily seasoned can do much. People cherish certain food smells for their entire lives, and they evoke pleasant memories and instill a sense of well being. Of course, often the sound of the food is very pleasant as well. There are many sounds of cooking that are easily associated with certain foods, their tastes and textures and the experience of the method which produces the sound. People like to know that specific foods are crunchy, or hear the hiss of frying. Sell the sizzle, they always say. Many enjoy these aspects of foods, but not actually ingesting the foods. Perhaps a flavor or texture is unappealing, while the scent reminds them of a happy moment.
I suppose food, after all, can be enjoyed without actually eating it. This does not preclude the desire to eat and the thought of eating, but does suggest that not all enjoyment comes from the eating.