Description
This refreshing Lemon and Basil Granita is a delightful frozen treat combining zesty lemon, aromatic basil, and a sweet simple syrup. Perfect for hot days, this granita features a flaky, icy texture that’s light, flavorful, and easily made at home with minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Syrup
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Granita Base
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
- Zest of 2 lemons
- A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar completely dissolves. Remove the pan from heat and let the syrup cool to room temperature.
- Blend the Ingredients: Add the cooled simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, fresh basil leaves, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt into a blender. Blend until the mixture is smooth and the basil leaves are fully incorporated.
- Strain the Mixture: Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a shallow dish to remove any solid bits of basil or lemon zest, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Freeze and Scrape: Place the shallow dish in the freezer. After 30 minutes, take it out and use a fork to scrape the icy edges, breaking up ice crystals. Repeat scraping every 30 minutes for 2 to 3 hours until the granita is fully frozen and fluffy with a flaky texture.
- Serve: Once the granita reaches the desired consistency, serve it immediately in chilled bowls or glasses. Just before serving, fluff the granita with a fork to lighten the texture and enhance its airy quality.
Notes
- Use fresh lemon juice and basil for the best flavor.
- Be patient during the freezing process and scrape regularly for the ideal flaky texture.
- You can adjust the sugar amount depending on your preferred sweetness level.
- This granular icy dessert is best enjoyed immediately but can be stored for a day in the freezer—just scrape again before serving.
