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Watermelon Granita

Watermelon granita is a semi-frozen dessert made by blending ripe watermelon with sugar and lime juice, then freezing and scraping to create crystalline, ice-shard textures. The final product features a refreshing, icy consistency with a vibrant, translucent appearance. It is served as an adult, brisk treat with a salty, invigorating snap.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Dessert
Calories: 80
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups ripe watermelon, cubed seedless preferred
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar adjust based on sweetness
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice added for brightness
  • pinch coarse sea salt optional, for contrast

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Freezer
  • Shredding fork or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Use a sharp knife and cutting board to cut the watermelon into small cubes. Transfer the watermelon to a blender.
  2. Add the granulated sugar, lime juice, and a pinch of sea salt to the blender with the watermelon.
  3. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and vibrant pink, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. You should see a uniform, liquid consistency with no chunks.
  4. Pour the blended mixture into a shallow dish or pan, spreading it out evenly.
  5. Place the dish in the freezer. Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape and break up the ice crystals, creating a flaky, crystalline texture. Repeat this process 3-4 times until fully frozen and sharded.
  6. Serve the granita in chilled bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt or a lime wedge if desired. Use a fork or spoon to scrape and serve the icy shards.

Notes

For best results, use ripe, fragrant watermelons. Adjust sugar quantity to your preferred sweetness. Serve immediately for the best crystalline texture.