Watermelon Granita with Lime Zest Recipe

Prep Time 15 mins
Rest Time 4 hrs
Total Time 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine:
Courses: , ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Best Season: Summer
Description

This Watermelon Granita with Lime Zest is a refreshing, icy summer dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe watermelon with the bright tang of fresh lime. Light, hydrating, and incredibly easy to make, this granita requires no special equipment beyond a freezer and a fork. It’s the perfect treat for hot days, summer gatherings, or as a palate cleanser between meals.

Ingredients
    For the Granita Base
  • 1.2 kg watermelon (seedless, cubed)
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 3 tbsp sugar (optional, adjust based on sweetness of watermelon)
  • 1 tsp lime zest (finely grated)
    • For Garnish (Optional)
  • 0.5 tsp lime zest (extra for topping)
  • Fresh mint leaves (a few sprigs)
Instructions
    Prepare the Watermelon
  1. 1
    Cut the watermelon into cubes, removing any seeds if necessary. Measure about 1.2 kg of fruit. Place cubes in a blender.
    2. Blend Until Smooth
  2. 2
    Add lime juice, sugar (if using), and lime zest to the blender. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and liquid. Taste and adjust sweetness.
    3. Strain (Optional)
  3. 3
    For an extra-smooth texture, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a shallow baking dish. This removes excess pulp.
    4. Freeze the Mixture
  4. 4
    Place the dish in the freezer for 1 hour. After the first hour, scrape the edges of the mixture with a fork to break up ice crystals.
    5. Repeat the Scraping Process
  5. 5
    Return to the freezer. Every 30–45 minutes, scrape with a fork to create light, fluffy crystals. Continue this process for 4–5 hours until the mixture resembles shaved ice.
    6. Serve
  6. 6
    Spoon the granita into chilled dessert glasses or bowls. Top with extra lime zest and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a vibrant finish. Serve immediately.
Note

Sweetness: If the watermelon is very ripe, you may not need sugar. Adjust to taste.

Texture: Scraping regularly creates light, fluffy crystals. If left too long, it may freeze solid—just let it sit at room temperature for 5 minutes and scrape again.

Variations: Try adding fresh mint or basil to the blender for a herbal twist. For a tropical vibe, substitute lime with lemon or yuzu zest.

Storage: Store granita in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. Re-fluff with a fork before serving.

Keywords: refreshing summer dessert, easy granita recipe, watermelon lime ice
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/watermelon-granita-with-lime-zest-recipe/