Watermelon Granita

If there is something that screams Summertime, it has got to be a granita. A granita is really a fancy term for delicious shaved ice, originating in Italy. The ingredients are ever so simple and the end result is a really cold cup or bowl of fresh, and fruity ice. Granitas can really be anything you put your mind on, whether it be raspberry, strawberry, or in my case a watermelon granita.

1 large seedless watermelon, cleaned and rind removed
1 lime, zest and juice
1 recipe Simple Syrup
mint leaves (optional)

Begin by making the simple syrup. Take ¾ cup of sugar and 1 ½ cup of water and bring to a boil, making sure the sugar gets dissolved. Remove this from the heat and let it cool.

During this time, break down your watermelon. Place this in a food processor and add the lime juice and zest, and simple syrup. Pulse everything down in the food processor.

Transfer the mixture into a shallow baking dish and place uncovered in the freezer. About every 30 minutes, check on the mixture, using a fork to stir the granita mixture. Continue to freeze and repeat the process, for up to 3 hours. Don’t worry if you do not have this time. If it hardens completely, just take it out of the freezer and let it sit on the counter for about 20-30 minutes, then scrape with a spoon.

Serve in a nice glass, add some chopped mint, and serve with a spoon.