| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 130 | 0g | 0g | 33g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 28g | 2g | 2g | 1mg |
I’ve always been fond of finding new ways to indulge in the freshness and sweetness of fruits. That’s exactly what makes this Watermelon Granita recipe one of my all-time favorites. It’s not just a refreshing treat, it’s also packed with health benefits that align perfectly with my belief in infusing health-consciousness into everyday meals.
Merging Health and Indulgence
When I think about this recipe, it seamlessly merges the health-conscious ethos that California’s sunny valleys ingrained in me with the simple pleasure of enjoying a refreshing, frosty treat. Watermelon is a star here, and not just for its succulent, sweet flavor. This fruit is a hydration powerhouse, with a high water content that helps quench your thirst on even the hottest of days. But that’s not all; it’s also packed with vitamins A and C, potassium and magnesium – nutrients known to benefit heart health, promote healthy skin and hair, and provide our bodies with the electrolytes they need.
The inclusion of fresh lime juice in the recipe adds a punch of zesty flavor as well as its own array of health benefits. It’s well known that limes are an excellent source of antioxidants, which protect your body from free radicals. Plus, their high vitamin C content boosts your immune system and promotes healthy skin. Sweetened just enough by a hint of granulated sugar, this Watermelon Granita is indeed a marriage of health and indulgence.
A Versatile Delight
Just as you can find a variety of dishes in west coast cuisine, you can also pair this Watermelon Granita with different dishes. If you’re hosting a summer barbecue, it would be the perfect palate cleanser in between your smoky, well-seasoned meats. The fruity, refreshing touch of the granita balances out hearty flavors beautifully.
Similarly, if you’re going for a lighter meal, pair this frosty treat with a fresh salad. I can vouch for its wonderful pairing with a Watermelon and Tomato Salad, where the granita acts as a stunning, cooling dessert that ties the meal together perfectly.
So whether for a fun-filled barbecue, a quiet dinner, or simply to satiate a craving for something sweet yet healthy, this Watermelon Granita recipe holds a special place in my go-to list. Its vibrant flavor, nutrient-packed ingredients, and versatile pairing options make it a delightfully refreshing culinary affair.
What You’ll Need
- 1 large ripe watermelon
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- Juice of 2 limes
- Mint leaves for garnish
Method
Step One
First, cut the watermelon into slices, remove the seeds and scoop the flesh into a blender. Make sure you have about 4 cups of watermelon flesh.
Step Two
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Place it on a medium heat and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Then, remove from the heat and set aside to cool.
Step Three
Add the cooled sugar syrup and the juice of 2 limes to the blender with the watermelon. Blend until smooth.
Step Four
Transfer the blended mixture to a shallow dish and place it in the freezer. After about 1 hour, when the edges start to freeze, take the dish out, and use a fork to stir and break it up. Return it to the freezer.
Step Five
Repeat this process every 20 minutes or so for the next 2 hours, until the granita is fully frozen and has a flaky texture.
Step Six
Serve the Watermelon Granita in chilled bowls or glasses, garnish with mint leaves, and enjoy!
