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Watermelon Granita

Watermelon Granita recipe image
This Watermelon Granita is the ultimate summer cooler, blending sweet, ripe watermelon with a touch of zesty lemon juice for a perfectly balanced flavor profile. The simple syrup base ensures a smooth, crystalline texture that melts on the tongue, offering a refreshing escape from the heat. Ideal for warm afternoons, pool parties, or as a light, vegan-friendly dessert course, this frozen treat requires no fancy equipment&# 226;ÂÂjust patience and a fork. The process of periodically scraping the ice crystals creates a unique, fluffy consistency that distinguishes granita from ice cream. Serve it in chilled glasses for a sophisticated yet effortless presentation that highlights the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4
Calories: 176.6
Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Description
This Watermelon Granita is the ultimate summer cooler, blending sweet, ripe watermelon with a touch of zesty lemon juice for a perfectly balanced flavor profile. The simple syrup base ensures a smooth, crystalline texture that melts on the tongue, offering a refreshing escape from the heat. Ideal for warm afternoons, pool parties, or as a light, vegan-friendly dessert course, this frozen treat requires no fancy equipment&# 226;€”just patience and a fork. The process of periodically scraping the ice crystals creates a unique, fluffy consistency that distinguishes granita from ice cream. Serve it in chilled glasses for a sophisticated yet effortless presentation that highlights the natural sweetness of the fruit.
Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup Sugar
  • 1 cup Water
  • 3 tablespoon Lemon juice
Directions
  1. 1
    Blend watermelon chunks in a blender until you achieve a coarse puree.
  2. 2
    Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp, reserving 3 cups of liquid.
  3. 3
    In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium-high heat.
  4. 4
    Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
  5. 5
    Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
  6. 6
    Once cooled, stir the simple syrup into the watermelon puree along with the lemon juice.
  7. 7
    Pour the mixture into an 8x12 inch metal baking pan.
  8. 8
    Place the pan in the refrigerator until the mixture is completely chilled.
  9. 9
    Transfer the chilled pan to the freezer and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  10. 10
    Remove from freezer and use a fork to scrape down the sides and stir the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals.
  11. 11
    Return to the freezer for another 30 minutes, then scrape and stir again.
  12. 12
    Repeat this process every 30 minutes for approximately 3 to 4 hours, until the granita is evenly icy and fluffy throughout.
  13. 13
    Serve immediately using a spoon to scoop out the icy crystals.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 176.6kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.0g0%
Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 0.6mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 45.8g16%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 45.2g
Protein 0.0g0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For best texture, use a shallow metal pan as it freezes more evenly than glass or plastic.

If the granita becomes too hard to scoop, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.

You can substitute honey or agave nectar for sugar, but reduce the water slightly as these sweeteners are liquid.

Add a sprig of mint or a splash of vodka for an adult variation.

Granita is best enjoyed fresh on the day it is made. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 days, but the texture may become harder.

Keywords: watermelon, granita, frozen dessert, summer recipe, vegan, gluten free, refreshing, easy dessert, lemon, sweet, icy, no-churn, party food, cooling, fruit dessert, simple syrup, ice cream alternative, healthy treat, homemade, breakfast
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/watermelon-granita/