Cherry Parfait

Ingredients

4 cups fresh cherries, divided

1/2 teaspoons finely grated fresh lemon zest

1 to 2 teaspoons finely granulated sugar, to taste

2 cups chilled heavy whipping cream

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 to 2 teaspoons powdered sugar or agave nectar, to taste

Zest of one small lemon

4 sprigs of fresh mint

Instructions

Remove pits from 1 cup of the cherries and place them in a small food processor with lemon zest and sugar. Finely mix and chop and set aside. Be sure to at least 4 of your most picture-perfect whole cherries to be used as garnish later. Remove pits from remaining cherries and slice into halves. Combine the heavy cream, vanilla, and powdered sugar (or agave) in a bowl and using an electric mixer, whip the mixture. Start with minimal sweetness; taste; and adjust to your liking before continuing to whip the cream until soft peaks form. Two ways to serve: you may gently layer, alternating cream, cherry sauce, cream or, you may lightly fold the cherry sauce into the cream mixture and scoop the servings into your prettiest martini glass. May be served immediately or may be covered tightly and chilled. Regardless, don’t forget to garnish with a bring green sprig of mint and a few beautiful cherries. Serves 4