Description
This refreshing Lemon and Basil Granita is a vibrant and icy treat combining the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the aromatic flavor of basil. Perfect as a palate cleanser or a light dessert, this granita features a simple syrup base blended with fresh lemon juice and basil, frozen and scraped to create a fluffy, flaky texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Granita Base
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt
Flavoring
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 4–6 lemons)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- Zest of 2 lemons
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves completely to form a clear simple syrup. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Blend the Ingredients: Transfer the cooled simple syrup to a blender. Add fresh lemon juice, packed basil leaves, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Blend on high until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a shallow dish to remove basil leaves and any solid particles, ensuring a smooth base for the granita.
- Freeze and Scrape: Place the shallow dish in the freezer. After 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape and break up the forming ice crystals. Repeat scraping every 30 minutes for 2 to 3 hours, until the granita is fully frozen and has a light, flaky texture.
- Serve: Once frozen to a fluffy consistency, fluff the granita with a fork and serve chilled in bowls or glasses. Fluff again just before serving to maintain the airy texture.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Regular scraping is key to achieving the traditional granita texture.
- The granita can be stored in the freezer and fluff scraped again before serving.
- Adjust sugar amount to taste if a less sweet granita is preferred.
- For a twist, garnish with fresh basil leaves or lemon slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing and Scraping
- Cuisine: Italian
