Classic Watermelon Granita Recipe
This Classic Watermelon Granita is a refreshing and easy-to-make frozen dessert perfect for hot days. Made with sweet watermelon, fresh lime juice and zest, a touch of sugar, and a hint of mint, this icy treat offers a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a refreshing herbal note. It requires no special equipment beyond a freezer and a fork, making it an accessible and vibrant option for cooling down.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (freezing time included with intermittent scraping)
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb watermelon, cubed into 1-inch pieces and seeds removed
- 1 large lime, zested and freshly squeezed to yield 3 tbsp juice
- 1/2 cup sugar (Domino extra fine granulated sugar)
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp cold water
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Watermelon: Place the cubed watermelon pieces in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Strain the juice through a fine sieve into a bowl to remove pulp and seeds.
- Mix Ingredients: Add the lime juice, lime zest, sugar, kosher salt, and cold water to the watermelon juice. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Mix in the finely chopped fresh mint leaves.
- Freeze and Scrape: Pour the mixture into a shallow metal or glass baking dish. Place it in the freezer. After about 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the frozen edges towards the center to create delicate ice crystals. Return to the freezer.
- Repeat Scraping: Repeat the scraping process every 30 minutes for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the granita is fully frozen and fluffy in texture.
- Serve: Spoon the granita into bowls or glasses and serve immediately for a refreshing treat.
Notes
- Use seedless watermelon or remove seeds thoroughly to avoid bitterness.
- Adjust the sugar level depending on the sweetness of your watermelon.
- Scraping is essential to achieve the light, fluffy texture of granita.
- The granita can be stored covered in the freezer for up to 2 days but is best enjoyed fresh.
- For a boozy twist, add a tablespoon of rum or vodka before freezing.
Keywords: watermelon granita, refreshing summer dessert, frozen watermelon, lime granita, mint granita
Find it online: https://foodbylina.com/classic-watermelon-granita-recipe/
