Watermelon granita

This simple dessert is the perfect way to stay cool on a hot summer day (or night!).


Watermelon granita

Cool off with this watermelon granita! Originally from Sicily, this icy treat resembles a sophisticated and healthy version of a snow cone. Instead of being made with artificial sugary syrups, it’s made with fresh fruit, a little sugar, and water.

Watermelons are a great base because they don’t require extra water or much sugar. Make watermelon granita ahead of time and serve as a light dessert for a summer dinner party — or enjoy immediately as a refreshing and hydrating snack.

Servings: 8

Prep time: 4 to 6 hours (active time: about 30 minutes)

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds watermelon, cut into chunks (discard the rind or save for pickling)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut sugar (or another type of sweetener)
  • 3 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)

Directions

  1. Place ingredients in blender and process until smooth.
  2. Pour into a shallow pan and freeze for about 2 hours.
  3. Then use a fork to scrape the top layer every 30 minutes until the entire mixture is shaved and broken up into coarse ice crystals (this process should take another 2 to 4 hours). The end product will look like a flaky slushy.
  4. Divide granita into small bowls and enjoy! If you’d like to store for later, cover with plastic wrap and keep in the freezer for up to a week.

Nutrition information (per serving)

  • Calories: 50
  • Total fat: 0 g
  • Saturated fat: 0 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Sodium: 0 mg
  • Total carbohydrate: 14 g
  • Dietary fiber: 1 g
  • Total sugars: 12 g
  • Protein: 0 g