Save This
This Mint Watermelon Granita cools you from the inside out, capturing summer’s freshest flavors in every frosty spoonful. There is nothing better when the temperature soars than the combo of juicy watermelon and bright mint, blitzed and frozen into a dessert that is both effortless and elegant.
I made this the first time for a backyard barbecue and was amazed by how quickly it disappeared. Now my friends expect it every 4th of July. Kids love it just as much as adults do.
Ingredients
- Seedless watermelon: choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a deep yellow spot from resting on the ground
- Fresh mint leaves: give brightness and a cooling finish to each bite choose vibrant green leaves
- Lime juice: adds tartness and keeps the flavors balanced look for limes that yield to gentle pressure
- Granulated sugar: enhances the natural sweetness use less if your watermelon is extra ripe
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit and Herbs:
- Cut the watermelon into chunks removing rind and any stray seeds for the smoothest texture. Wash and pat dry mint leaves before using.
- Blend the Mixture:
- Combine the watermelon chunks mint leaves lime juice and sugar in your blender or food processor. Process until completely smooth and vibrant. Taste for sweetness and adjust if your watermelon is less sweet.
- Strain for Smoothness:
- If you want an extra silky granita pour the purée through a fine mesh sieve into a shallow freezer-safe dish to catch any pulp.
- Initial Freeze and Scrape:
- Place the dish flat in your freezer. After about 45 to 60 minutes check for ice crystals forming at the edges and scrape them in towards the center with a fork. This step prevents large ice clumps and builds the granita’s signature flaky texture.
- Repeat Scraping:
- Continue to freeze scraping with a fork every 30 minutes for about 4 hours until your granita is light fluffy and spoonable with icy shards throughout.
- Serve and Garnish:
- When ready to serve fluff the mixture again. Spoon it into chilled glasses and top with extra fresh mint leaves for aroma and a burst of color.
Save This
Storage Tips
Store the granita in a covered freezer-safe container for up to a week Fluff with a fork before serving if it compacts or ices over The flavor and texture stay best within the first few days
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the mint for fresh basil if you want a different herbal twist Maple syrup or honey works as a sweetener if you prefer to skip refined sugar For kids skip any alcohol if you are serving adults a splash of rum or vodka adds a grown up edge
Serving Suggestions
Serve in cocktail glasses for a sophisticated look or in shallow bowls for kids Add a squeeze of extra lime over the top for more brightness This granita is lovely on its own but also makes a refreshing palate cleanser between courses
Cultural Notes
Granita hails from Sicily where it uses local fruits and herbs and is scraped by hand for an icy texture It is beloved for being refreshing and easy to prepare with zero need for an ice cream maker Watermelon and mint are classic summer flavors in Mediterranean countries
Save This
Common Questions
- → Can I make Mint Watermelon Granita without a blender?
While a blender or food processor creates the smoothest texture, mashing watermelon with a fork and finely chopping mint works as an alternative, though the result may be chunkier.
- → How can I tell if my watermelon is sweet enough?
Sample a piece before preparing. If it's less sweet, you can adjust sugar amounts in the mix to suit your taste.
- → What makes the texture fluffy instead of icy?
Using a fork to scrape the mixture during freezing breaks up ice crystals, resulting in the signature fluffy texture of granita.
- → Is it possible to make this dessert ahead?
Absolutely. Prepare, freeze, and store granita tightly covered for up to a week. Fluff again with a fork before serving for best results.
- → Are there variations for serving?
Garnishing with fresh mint, lime zest, or wedges adds brightness. For adults, a touch of rum or vodka brings subtle complexity.