Melon and Apple Granita
Talk about a perfect summertime recipe! When I saw this recipe I knew many of you would like it.
This granita uses sweet ripe melon for flavor, apple juice instead of sugar, and a touch of lime juice to perk up the flavors. Berries look beautiful on top; or if you can find fresh figs, add them.
For a vibrant look, make with an orange-fleshed melon, such as cantaloupe, Charentais, or orange honeydew.
Melon and Apple Granita
Makes: 8 servings, about 3/4 cup granita each
Ingredients
- 4 cups cubed ripe melon
- 1 cup unsweetened apple juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh raspberries
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Preparation:
- Combine melon, apple juice, and lime juice in a blender; puree until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a 9-by-13-inch glass or metal pan.
- Place the pan on a level surface in your freezer.
- Freeze, stirring and scraping with a fork every 30 minutes, moving the frozen edges in toward the slushy center and crushing any lumps, until the granita is firm but not frozen solid, 3 to 4 hours.
- Remove from the freezer; use a metal spatula or large spoon to break up the ice into small slivers.
- Pack into an airtight plastic container and freeze for at least 1 hour more.
- Remove from the freezer for about 20 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Use a wide spoon or ice cream scoop to scrape the granita into shallow bowls.
- Sprinkle blueberries and raspberries over each portion and garnish with mint leaves, if desired.
Tip: Freeze for up to 1 week. Remove about 20 minutes before serving to soften slightly.