Experience the ultimate in refreshing desserts with our Fruit Granita. This simple, Italian-inspired frozen treat is bursting with fresh fruit flavors and offers a delightful, icy texture that is perfect for cooling down on a hot day. Whether you're entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this granita is a quick and easy way to enjoy a taste of summer in every spoonful.
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Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Freezing Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 100
- Protein: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fat: 0g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 5mg
Ingredients
- 500g (4 cups) fresh fruit (such as strawberries, watermelon, or mango)
- 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- 240ml (1 cup) water
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Method of Preparation
- In a blender, combine the fresh fruit, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using).
- Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust the sweetness if necessary.
- Pour the fruit mixture into a shallow baking dish or a large, flat container. The thinner the layer, the faster it will freeze.
- Place the dish in the freezer.
- After about 1 hour, use a fork to scrape the ice crystals that are beginning to form around the edges into the center.
- Return the dish to the freezer and repeat this scraping process every 30 minutes for about 3 hours, or until the entire mixture is fluffy and crystallized.
- Fluff the granita with a fork just before serving to create a light, icy texture.
- Spoon the granita into serving glasses or bowls.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired and serve immediately.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a more intense flavor, use ripe, in-season fruit.
- If you prefer a sweeter granita, add more sugar to taste.
- Experiment with different fruit combinations for unique flavors, such as strawberry-basil or mango-lime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I use frozen fruit for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use frozen fruit. Thaw it slightly before blending to make the process easier.
- Q: How long can I store granita in the freezer? A: Granita can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 week. Fluff it with a fork before serving to restore the texture.
- Q: Can I add alcohol to the granita? A: Yes, you can add a splash of your favorite liquor, such as vodka or rum, to the fruit mixture before freezing. This will give your granita an extra kick.
Elevate your summer refreshment game with our Fruit Granita. This delightful frozen treat is not only easy to make but also versatile and endlessly customizable. Enjoy the burst of fruity flavors and the satisfying crunch of ice crystals that will transport you to a sunny Italian piazza with every bite. Cheers to a refreshing and delicious summer!