Summer Solstice, sometimes known as Midsummer or Litha and occurs in the middle of June. It is a celebration of the longest day of the year and the beginning of Summer. It has been a grand tribal gathering time since ancient times. The Goddess manifests as Mother Earth and the God likewise, manifests as the Sun King. Celebrating colors are Yellow, Green, and Blue.
Summer Solstice also brings about refreshing recipes for summer gatherings! This is a recipe I intend to make to celebrate Summer Solstice and being it's for summer it is a cold soup. It can also be considered a dessert. :)
Chilled Cherry Soup
Ingredients:
12 1/2 pounds of pitted dark,sweet cherries (fresh if you can find and afford them but frozen is fine too.
4 cups of water
1/4 cup of either honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Juice of 1 lemon
Whipped cream or yogurt for topping. (or for a Chocolate Redi-Whip...yummm)
Put cherries, honey/maple syrup and water in saucepan , bring to boil, reduce heat and simmer 15-20 minutes Cool to room temp. Place all in blender with lemon juice and process until smooth adding more sweetener if needed. Chill thoroughly, serve in pretty bowls, top with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt.
Enjoy the start of summer!
