50+ Delicious January Solstice Recipes for the Longest Night

The January solstice marks the official start of winter, and it’s a time when we gather to honor the longest night of the year.

This celestial event is a perfect occasion for cozy meals, hearty stews, and vibrant dishes that warm both the body and the soul.

Whether you’re hosting a solstice gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, food plays an important role in celebrating this transition into the coldest season.

In this blog post, we’ve curated a collection of over 50 recipes designed to embrace the flavors of winter, with dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients, comforting textures, and warming spices.

From hearty soups and savory casseroles to sweet treats and vibrant salads, you’ll find something for every taste and occasion.

These January solstice recipes are perfect for bringing family and friends together, making the longest night of the year feel like a joyous celebration.

50+ Delicious January Solstice Recipes for the Longest Night

As you prepare to welcome the new season, these 50+ January solstice recipes offer a diverse range of dishes that reflect the warmth, abundance, and coziness that define winter celebrations.

Whether you’re looking for a nourishing bowl of soup, a festive dessert, or a comforting main course, there’s something to suit every craving.

Each recipe is designed to help you make the most of the season’s flavors and enjoy the company of loved ones, turning the solstice into a memorable and flavorful experience.

Let these recipes inspire your solstice table, and remember: food has a unique way of bringing us together, no matter the season.

So, gather your ingredients, light a few candles, and savor the delicious dishes that will make this solstice one to remember.

Winter Citrus Salad

This vibrant winter citrus salad is perfect for celebrating the January solstice, offering a refreshing burst of citrus flavors to balance the winter chill. The combination of blood oranges, grapefruits, and mandarins with a tangy honey-mint dressing is not only visually stunning but also packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, providing a healthy boost during the colder months. It’s a light, energizing dish to start your solstice celebrations with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 2 blood oranges, peeled and sliced
• 2 grapefruits, peeled and sliced
• 2 mandarins, peeled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Arrange the citrus slices in a large bowl or platter, alternating the types for a colorful display.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, olive oil, lemon juice, and sea salt until well combined.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the citrus slices and toss gently to coat.
4. Sprinkle chopped fresh mint on top as a final garnish.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before serving.

This citrus salad captures the spirit of the solstice with its bright, refreshing flavors and vibrant colors, offering a burst of energy on the longest night of the year. The honey-mint dressing ties the fruit together with a hint of sweetness and freshness, making it a perfect complement to the more hearty dishes that often accompany winter meals.

Roasted Root Vegetable Soup

This warm and hearty roasted root vegetable soup makes the perfect dish for the January solstice, embracing the earthiness of seasonal vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes. Roasting the vegetables beforehand brings out their natural sweetness, creating a rich, deep flavor profile. Paired with fragrant herbs and a touch of cream, this soup is a comforting way to honor the changing of the seasons, offering warmth and nourishment on the shortest day of the year.

Ingredients:

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a dairy-free version)
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the chopped carrots, parsnips, sweet potato, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet.
3. Roast the vegetables for 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. In a large pot, add the roasted vegetables, vegetable broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. (Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and puree in batches.)
6. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of thyme or a drizzle of extra cream.

This roasted root vegetable soup embodies the essence of winter with its comforting, creamy texture and earthy flavors. It’s the perfect dish to indulge in during the solstice, offering both warmth and a nourishing dose of vitamins from the root vegetables. The roasted sweetness, combined with the richness of the cream, makes it an ideal dish to enjoy as you reflect on the solstice.

Cinnamon Spiced Apple Cake

This cinnamon spiced apple cake is a delightful way to celebrate the solstice, combining the warmth of spices with the natural sweetness of apples. Perfect for cozy gatherings, the cake has a soft, moist crumb and is infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla. Topped with a simple glaze, this cake is an indulgent treat to mark the beginning of a new cycle of the year.

Ingredients:

• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and grated
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of lemon juice)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for glazing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in the grated apples.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once the cake has cooled, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a few drops of water.

This cinnamon spiced apple cake is a heartwarming dessert that beautifully captures the essence of winter spices and fresh apples. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the solstice with a sweet treat that feels like a hug in cake form. The moist, flavorful cake, paired with the light glaze, offers a perfect balance of richness and spice, making it an excellent choice for your solstice celebration.

Winter Squash Risotto

This creamy and comforting winter squash risotto is a perfect dish to celebrate the January solstice. With the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash, the richness of Arborio rice, and a dash of sage and Parmesan, this risotto offers both warmth and a luxurious texture. The deep orange hue of the squash evokes the warmth and light we seek as we move through the darkest days of the year, making it a fitting choice for the solstice.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the rice in the butter.
4. Slowly add the white wine (if using) and cook until mostly absorbed.
5. Gradually add the vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more broth. Continue until the rice is tender and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in the roasted butternut squash, Parmesan cheese, and fresh sage. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sage or Parmesan if desired.

This winter squash risotto captures the richness of winter vegetables and the soothing qualities of a creamy, well-cooked risotto. The sweetness of the roasted squash blends beautifully with the savory flavors of Parmesan and sage, creating a dish that is both warming and indulgent, making it an ideal choice for the solstice.

Spiced Cranberry Compote

This spiced cranberry compote is a wonderfully tart and sweet dish that celebrates the flavors of winter. Perfect for the January solstice, it’s full of vibrant red cranberries, warming spices like cinnamon and clove, and a touch of honey for sweetness. Whether served as a topping for pancakes, oatmeal, or even as a side to roasted meats, this compote brings a burst of brightness and festive flavor to your solstice feast.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 whole cloves
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, honey (or maple syrup), orange juice, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract, and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Remove the cinnamon stick and cloves before serving.
5. Allow the compote to cool slightly before serving or storing in the refrigerator.

This spiced cranberry compote adds a burst of flavor and color to any meal. The combination of tart cranberries, sweet honey, and fragrant orange zest brings an uplifting note to the solstice, while the spices provide a warming touch. Its versatility makes it perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes, making it a valuable addition to your winter table.

Baked Pears with Walnuts and Honey

This simple yet elegant dessert of baked pears with walnuts and honey is a delicious and comforting way to mark the January solstice. The natural sweetness of ripe pears intensifies as they bake, creating a warm, fragrant treat. The addition of crunchy walnuts and a drizzle of honey adds texture and richness, making this dessert a perfect way to embrace the season.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe pears, halved and cored
• 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pear halves in a baking dish, cut-side up.
2. In a small bowl, mix the chopped walnuts, honey, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
3. Spoon the walnut mixture into the centers of the pear halves, then dot each pear with a small piece of butter.
4. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
5. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the tops to caramelize slightly.
6. Serve warm, drizzled with any leftover honey and garnished with extra walnuts if desired.

These baked pears with walnuts and honey are a delightful and soothing dessert to enjoy during the solstice. The combination of warm, tender pears with the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of honey creates a cozy, flavorful end to your meal. This dish is simple to prepare but has a touch of elegance, making it a perfect way to celebrate the change of seasons.

Cabbage and Carrot Stir-Fry with Ginger

This vibrant and flavorful cabbage and carrot stir-fry with ginger is an excellent dish to celebrate the January solstice. The combination of tender cabbage and crunchy carrots, along with the zing of fresh ginger, creates a refreshing yet hearty dish. The stir-fry is both light and satisfying, with a savory-sweet sauce that balances the earthy flavors of the vegetables. This dish is perfect for embracing the season’s produce, bringing warmth and a touch of spice to the table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 2 medium carrots, julienned
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, sautéing for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and julienned carrots to the skillet, stirring frequently. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the vegetables and caramelize slightly.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

This cabbage and carrot stir-fry with ginger is a flavorful, light dish that’s perfect for the solstice, offering a healthy dose of veggies with a hint of spice and sweetness. The ginger adds warmth, while the soy sauce and sesame oil bring a savory depth. It’s a dish that perfectly complements other heavier winter meals and helps balance out a festive solstice spread.

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

This roasted beet and goat cheese salad is a beautiful and nourishing dish to enjoy on the January solstice. The earthy sweetness of roasted beets pairs perfectly with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese, creating a balanced combination of flavors. Topped with crunchy walnuts and a light vinaigrette, this salad is both satisfying and refreshing—ideal for a solstice celebration that honors the changing of seasons.

Ingredients:

• 3 medium beets, peeled and diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
• 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for dressing)
• 1 teaspoon honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced beets with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
2. Roast the beets for 25-30 minutes, or until tender, flipping halfway through for even roasting.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and honey to make the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine the roasted beets, mixed greens, and walnuts.
5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Top with crumbled goat cheese and serve immediately.

This roasted beet and goat cheese salad is both elegant and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for the solstice. The sweetness of the beets and the tangy creaminess of goat cheese provide a harmonious contrast, while the toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch. It’s a bright and vibrant dish that can be enjoyed as a light main or a side, offering a refreshing start to your solstice meal.

Pumpkin Spiced Latte Smoothie

This creamy, spiced pumpkin latte smoothie is a cozy, energizing treat for the solstice, blending the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon with the smooth texture of a smoothie. Perfect for a breakfast or afternoon snack, it brings together all the comforting flavors of fall and winter in a refreshing, easy-to-make drink. Packed with nutrients, this smoothie offers a delicious way to celebrate the solstice while staying energized through the winter months.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 cup ice cubes
• Optional: 1 shot of espresso or 1/2 cup brewed coffee for a caffeinated boost

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the pumpkin puree, Greek yogurt, almond milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and ice cubes.
2. If desired, add a shot of espresso or brewed coffee for an added caffeine kick.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness with more maple syrup if needed.
4. Pour into a glass and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or whipped cream (optional).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

This pumpkin spiced latte smoothie combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices with the refreshing qualities of a smoothie. It’s a perfect solstice drink to enjoy in the morning or afternoon, providing both a cozy, seasonal flavor and a nutritious boost to start the day. The optional coffee adds an energizing element, making it a versatile choice for your solstice celebrations.

Sweet Potato and Kale Gratin

This sweet potato and kale gratin is a rich and comforting dish, perfect for the January solstice. Layered with tender sweet potatoes and vibrant, earthy kale, this gratin is topped with a creamy, cheesy sauce that bakes into a golden, bubbling perfection. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the slight bitterness of the kale, making this a hearty and nourishing dish for celebrating the solstice.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 cups kale, chopped and stems removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the kale and cook until wilted, about 4-5 minutes. Set aside.
3. In a saucepan, warm the heavy cream over low heat. Stir in the thyme, salt, and pepper, then mix in the Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses. Cook until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. In the prepared baking dish, layer the sweet potato slices and cooked kale, alternating between the two. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Let the gratin rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This sweet potato and kale gratin offers a wonderful balance of rich, creamy textures and vibrant flavors. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and nourishment to your solstice table, with the earthy kale complementing the sweetness of the potatoes and the cheesy sauce adding a luxurious finish. The layers of flavor create a satisfying and celebratory dish that’s perfect for the longest night of the year.

Lentil and Spinach Stew

This hearty lentil and spinach stew is perfect for celebrating the solstice with warmth and nutrition. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and earthy flavors, this dish is a cozy, filling option for a solstice dinner. The earthy lentils blend beautifully with the bright, slightly bitter spinach, and the spices infuse the stew with layers of warmth, making it both comforting and invigorating.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and carrots, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper, and stir to coat the vegetables in the spices.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the spinach wilts.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve hot.

This lentil and spinach stew is a perfect solstice dish, full of hearty ingredients and nourishing flavors. The lentils provide a great source of plant-based protein, while the spinach offers a dose of vitamins and minerals. The blend of spices creates a warming, flavorful broth that’s comforting and perfect for the colder days of winter. This stew is a healthy, hearty option to celebrate the solstice with family and friends.

Clementine and Pomegranate Sorbet

This refreshing and tangy clementine and pomegranate sorbet is a delightful treat to serve at your solstice celebration. The combination of bright clementine citrus and the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate creates a refreshing balance that’s perfect for cutting through the richness of heavier winter dishes. It’s a light, cooling option to offer guests at the end of a meal, especially when you’re looking for something both festive and health-conscious.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh clementine juice (about 6-8 clementines)
• 1 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/4 cup honey or agave syrup
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pomegranate juice, honey, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
2. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool.
3. In a blender, combine the clementine juice, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and the cooled pomegranate syrup. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you don’t have an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into a shallow pan and freeze, stirring every 30 minutes until it reaches a sorbet-like consistency.
5. Once churned or frozen, serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the freezer until ready to serve.

This clementine and pomegranate sorbet is a refreshing and light dessert to conclude your solstice meal. Its sweet and tangy flavors, combined with the smooth, icy texture, make it an ideal option for cleansing the palate after a rich, hearty feast. The sorbet’s vibrant colors also add a festive touch, making it a beautiful and tasty addition to your solstice celebration.

Crispy Chickpea and Sweet Potato Tacos

These crispy chickpea and sweet potato tacos are a vibrant and satisfying dish, perfect for a solstice meal. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes and crispy chickpeas creates a hearty yet light filling, while the taco toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime bring a burst of freshness and brightness. These tacos are a celebration of both winter vegetables and bold, zesty flavors that will leave you feeling nourished and energized through the darkest days of the year.

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the cubed sweet potato and chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Spread everything out in an even layer.
2. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chickpeas are crispy, shaking the pan halfway through.
3. While the vegetables roast, warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side.
4. To assemble the tacos, spoon the roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas onto the tortillas. Top with slices of avocado, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
5. Serve immediately, with extra lime wedges on the side.

These crispy chickpea and sweet potato tacos are an easy, flavorful, and plant-based option to enjoy during the solstice. The hearty sweet potatoes and crunchy chickpeas provide a perfect filling, while the fresh toppings brighten the dish and add layers of flavor. The tacos are both satisfying and energizing, making them a great way to nourish your body during the colder months.

Spicy Tomato and Lentil Soup

This spicy tomato and lentil soup is a warming, hearty dish that’s ideal for the January solstice. The combination of protein-rich lentils, rich tomatoes, and bold spices creates a comforting and flavorful soup that is perfect for cozying up on a cold winter day. The touch of heat from the spices balances the sweetness of the tomatoes, making each spoonful both satisfying and invigorating.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, turmeric, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, until the spices are fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, lentils, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.

This spicy tomato and lentil soup is the ultimate winter comfort food, offering both nourishment and warmth. The combination of lentils and tomatoes creates a rich, hearty base, while the spices provide a perfect balance of heat and depth. This soup is ideal for the solstice, providing a hearty meal that is both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Winter Citrus Salad with Honey-Balsamic Dressing

This vibrant winter citrus salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that brings brightness and flavor to your January solstice celebration. The citrus fruits—such as oranges, grapefruits, and blood oranges—offer a tangy sweetness, while the honey-balsamic dressing adds a rich, slightly tart element that ties everything together. This salad is a light yet satisfying side dish that celebrates the season’s citrus bounty and adds a pop of color to your solstice spread.

Ingredients:

• 2 oranges, peeled and sliced
• 2 grapefruits, peeled and sliced
• 1 blood orange (optional), peeled and sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Arrange the citrus slices on a large serving platter, layering them with the thinly sliced red onion and pomegranate seeds.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Drizzle the dressing over the citrus and onion, ensuring even coverage.
4. Garnish the salad with fresh mint leaves.
5. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before serving for a cooler, refreshing dish.

This winter citrus salad with honey-balsamic dressing is a delightful and invigorating dish, perfect for the solstice. The bright, tangy citrus fruits add natural sweetness and vibrant color, while the honey-balsamic dressing balances the acidity with a rich, slightly sweet touch. It’s a refreshing dish that celebrates the abundance of winter citrus, making it a perfect addition to your solstice meal.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!