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Wednesday, July 6, 2011

The Summer Brain Freeze






Watermelon-Lemon Granita

I have always desired to have an ice cream maker in my repertoire of kitchen gadgets, but have not  found the time to purchase one. Since I do not possess the coveted summer time sweet maker, I have decided to supplement my sweet tooth with granitas instead. The granita is a semi-frozen dessert originating in Sicily. It is made from sugar, water and whatever flavor your palate desires, from fresh fruit to coffee. In Italy, the desired texture of a granita varies from city to city, but my version has the consistency, without the overwhelming faux flavors, of shaved ice.Whatever the texture or flavor you choose, granita is a fresh, light summer dessert that is sure to impress.


Watermelon-Lemon Granita Recipe

Makes: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Freezing Time: A few hours

4 cups of watermelon
1 large lemon, juiced
1/2 tsp. lemon zest
1/3 cup sugar
Fresh mint (garnish)

In a food processor or blender, add lemon juice and watermelon. Pulse until mixture is in liquid form. Pour mixture through a sieve into a large bowl. Press down on the watermelon while in the strainer to make sure you get all the juice out.

To the bowl, add the sugar and lemon zest. Stir until sugar has dissolved.

Pour mixture into a shallow square pan and place in freezer. Freeze for one hour. Remove and scrape with a fork to break up the crystals. Continue to do this each hour on the hour until you have the perfect crystallization.

Serve immediately with a sprig of fresh mint.

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