Dish

Granita al limone

Lemon Granita

To make Granita al limone, you will need fresh lemons, sugar, and water. The lemons should be juiced and the juice should be sweetened with sugar to taste. The sweetened lemon juice is then poured into a shallow dish or pan and frozen until solid. Once frozen, the lemon juice is scraped into icy flakes using a fork or other utensil. The granita can be served immediately, or stored in the freezer for later use.

European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Italian cuisine

Dessert› Frozen Dessert

Origins and history

Granita al limone is a traditional Italian dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Sicily, where it was made with local lemons and served as a refreshing treat during the hot summer months. Today, it is popular throughout Italy and can be found in many cafes and restaurants.

Dietary considerations

Granita al limone is suitable for most dietary needs, as it is naturally gluten-free and can be made with alternative sweeteners for those with sugar sensitivities. However, it does contain lemons, so it may not be suitable for individuals with citrus allergies.

Variations

There are many variations of Granita al limone, including adding flavorings like mint or basil to the lemon juice before freezing. Some people also like to add a splash of limoncello or other lemon-flavored liqueur for a more adult twist.

Presentation and garnishing

Granita al limone should be presented in a shallow dish or glass, with the icy flakes piled high and garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips & Tricks

To make the best Granita al limone, be sure to use fresh, ripe lemons and sweeten the juice to taste. The juice should be frozen in a shallow dish or pan to ensure that it freezes evenly and can be easily scraped into flakes. It is also important to scrape the granita with a fork or other utensil to create the light and fluffy texture that is characteristic of this dessert.

Side-dishes

Granita al limone is typically served on its own as a light and refreshing dessert, but it can also be paired with other Italian desserts like cannoli or biscotti.

Drink pairings

Granita al limone pairs well with sweet wines like Moscato or Vin Santo, which can help balance out the tartness of the lemon juice. It can also be served with a shot of limoncello or other lemon-flavored liqueur for a more adult twist.