Lately I have been thinking a lot about my childhood. Partly because it is spring and I am at home visiting my parents. I find myself wanting to bound over hay stacks and chase wild kittens through the barn to cuddle them until they are tame. And, I think that part of me wants to relive my childhood with my son as I watch him grow and play. Although I don’t know how much he would appreciate it if his Mother followed him everywhere acting like his peer, so I think I will have to settle for living vicariously through him. Children really do bring so much joy because there lives are so simple. I am trying very hard to remember that life doesn’t have to be so complicated and to become more childlike by enjoying the little things in life. I suppose it is good to relive your childhood just a little.

We have been having such glorious weather lately perfect to serve up some cool Strawberries & Spice Soup. It is very light and refreshing almost like a smoothy but more delicate on the palate and more complex in flavor. The spice comes from an infusion of cinnamon and cloves. It is the perfect ending to a summer meal or for an afternoon snack.

Strawberries & Spice Soup

adapted from TasteofHome

• 1 cup water, divided
• 1 cup unsweetened apple juice *
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp. ground cloves
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed
• 2 cups strawberry yogurt
• 3 drops red food coloring, optional
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• milk

1. In a large saucepan, combine 3/4 cup water, apple juice, sugar, cinnamon and cloves. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
2. Place strawberries and remaining water in a blender and process until smooth. Poor into apple juice mixture. Stir in yogurt and food coloring (if desired). Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours or until chilled.
3. Ladle soup into bowls. Combine sour cream and enough milk to make the sour cream the same consistency as the soup. Spoon some into the centre of each bowl and make a design by drawing a toothpick through it. If the cream mixture is the right consistency you should be able to make a design such as a flower or a heart.

Makes: 7 servings

*if you use a sweetened apple juice make sure to cut back on the sugar or it will be far too sweet.

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