Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Watermelon (about 1.5 kilograms or 3.3 pounds)
Juice of 1 lemon or lime (about 30 milliliters or 1 ounce)
Sweetener to taste (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Watermelon

Start by cutting the watermelon into chunks. Make sure to remove the seeds as you go. You will need about 1.5 kilograms or 3.3 pounds of watermelon for this recipe which is perfect for a refreshing dessert.

Once you have your chunks, place them in a freezer-safe container. Cover tightly and freeze for 4 to 5 hours, or overnight for best results.

Step 2

Grate the Frozen Watermelon

After freezing, remove the watermelon from the freezer. Grate the frozen chunks using a box grater or a food processor. It should have a fluffy, snow-like consistency, perfect for a granita.

Once grated, spoon the mixture into dessert bowls or glasses.

Step 3

Add Lime or Lemon Juice

Squeeze the juice of one lemon or lime over the grated watermelon. This will add a zesty flavor that complements the sweetness of the fruit.

Feel free to add sweetener if desired, but many find the fresh watermelon sweet enough without any additional sugar.

Step 4

Garnish and Serve

For an extra special touch, use a melon baller to scoop out small balls from any leftover watermelon and add them as a garnish.

Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing watermelon granita as a delightful dessert on a warm day!

Servings

Serving suggestions for your Watermelon Granita are as fun as they are creative! 🌟
Imagine setting the scene for a cozy outdoor picnic with friends and family. Serve your granita in fancy glass cups, topped with **zesty lime juice** for an extra kick. Want to impress? Add vibrant melon balls on top for a delightful pop of color. 🥳
Why not pair your granita with some **fresh mint leaves**? It adds a touch of elegance, making every bite a journey through summer vibes! 🌿
For the kids, serve it in slushy cups with colorful straws! They'll love the individual servings and the fun of enjoying something homemade. 🍧
Enjoy this watermelon treat any time of day, be it brunch or a refreshing dessert after dinner! Trust us, this granita will leave everyone craving for more! 😍

Variations

Want to make it gluten-free and vegan? 🌈
This Watermelon Granita is naturally gluten-free and vegan! You can enhance its flavor by adding a splash of coconut water for a tropical twist or experimenting with different fruits like strawberries or pineapples. 🍍💚
If you’re looking for a sweeter version without any sugar, try using agave syrup or maple syrup as a natural sweetener. This will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also keep it healthy. Just remember to adjust the amount according to your taste! 🍯

Faq

  • How do I know when the watermelon is ready to be grated?

    You'll want to freeze the watermelon chunks until they are solid, ideally 4-5 hours or overnight. They should feel firm and don't stick to your fingers.

  • Can I use other fruits for granita?

    Absolutely! You can swap watermelon with fruits like strawberries, mango, or lemon for a different refreshing flavor.

  • What should I do if my granita is too icy?

    If it’s too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes before grating again for the perfect fluffy texture!

  • Can I adjust the sweetness of the granita?

    Yes! You can add sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or even a bit of citrus zest for a natural sweetness boost.

  • How can I store leftover granita?

    Place it in an airtight container in the freezer, but keep in mind that it might need to be fluffed again before serving.

  • How do I maintain the texture of the granita when storing?

    Stir it every hour for the first few hours after freezing to keep it fluffy, and avoid refreezing if you've already served some.

Nutrition facts

Refreshing Watermelon Granita Dessert Recipe
Recipe Yield:4 servings
Calories:Approximately 50-80 calories per serving, depending on the portion size and additional sweeteners used.
Calories (Min - Max):50 - 80
Total Fat:0g
Saturated Fat:0g
Protein:1g
Total Carbohydrate:15g
Total Sugars:10g