Refreshing Lemon Granita

Ingredients

• 4 large lemons, juiced and zested 4 large lemons, juiced and zested
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1 tablespoon vodka (optional) 1 tablespoon vodka (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 47g, 45g
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, and cooled sugar syrup. Stir well to combine.
3. 3.
   If using vodka, add it to the mixture and stir.
4. 4.
   Pour the mixture into a shallow, freezer-safe dish and place it in the freezer.
5. 5.
   After 1 hour, use a fork to scrape the mixture, breaking up any ice crystals that have formed. Repeat this process every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours, or until the granita has a fluffy, icy texture.
6. 6.
   Once the granita is ready, transfer it to a covered container and keep it in the freezer until serving.
7. 7.
   Serve the Lemon Granita in chilled glasses or bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint or a lemon slice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Lemon — Use fresh, juicy lemons for the best flavor. Roll the lemons on the countertop before juicing to maximize the juice yield.
• Sugar — Granulated sugar works best for this recipe, as it dissolves easily in the syrup.
• Vodka — The addition of vodka helps to keep the granita from freezing too solidly, resulting in a smoother texture. However, it can be omitted if preferred.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, try using different citrus fruits such as oranges or grapefruits.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste preference.
• To serve as a palate cleanser between courses, serve the granita in small shot glasses.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture in a blender before freezing.
• Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a lemon slice for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Lemon Granita chilled in individual glasses or bowls. It can be enjoyed as a light and refreshing dessert or as a palate cleanser between courses during a meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the Lemon Granita in chilled glass bowls or martini glasses. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a lemon slice for an elegant touch.