Lemon Granita (Granita al Limone)

Lemon granita is a refreshing, ice-cold Italian treat that originates from Sicily, where it’s enjoyed especially during the hot summer months. Based on my overall experience, making this simple, tangy dessert at home is incredibly easy and offers a wonderfully cooling experience. Let me show you how I make this delightful granita.

What to Expect:

When you make lemon granita, expect a bright, tart, and refreshing dessert with a light, snow-like texture. It’s perfect for a hot weather.

Lemon Granita Recipe

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Time to stand: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Ease of cooking: Easy
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 13 calories

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4 lemons)
• 1 cup water
• > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Lemon Granita  here.

Equipment needed:

• Food processor
• Small saucepan
• Freezer-safe container (such as a baking dish or shallow pan)
• Fork (for scraping)
• > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Lemon Granita  here.

Method:

1. Prep the lemon zest: In a food processor, pulse the sugar and lemon zest together for 20 seconds until the sugar is moist and fragrant.
2. Make the syrup: Transfer the lemon-sugar mixture to a small saucepan, add water, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
3. Add lemon juice: Once the syrup has cooled, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice.
4. Freeze the mixture: Pour the lemon mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe container. Freeze for 2-3 hours.
5. Scrape the granita: After the initial freezing time, use a fork to scrape and fluff the mixture every 30 minutes, creating the signature flaky texture. Continue scraping until the granita reaches a snow-like consistency.
6. Serve and enjoy: Once fully frozen and fluffy, scoop the granita into serving glasses. Serve immediately.

Notes:

• The texture of granita should be icy and fluffy, similar to shaved ice but with a smoother, more granular consistency.
• It’s best enjoyed the same day, but you can store it in the freezer for later use.
• The sweetness and tartness can be adjusted by adding more or less sugar or lemon juice, depending on your personal preference.

Variations:

• Fruit granita: You can use other fruits like strawberries or peaches in place of lemon for a different flavor.
• Herb-infused granita: Add a few sprigs of mint to the syrup while it simmers to create a refreshing herbal twist.

Substitutions:

• For a vegan option, this recipe is naturally dairy-free.
• You can use a sugar substitute (like stevia or monk fruit sweetener) if you’re avoiding sugar, but adjust the amount according to taste.
• > Go get the must-have equipment and ingredients for making a Savory  #Lemon Granita  here.

Nutritional Information per Serving:

• Calories: 13
• Total Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 0g