Authentic Sicilian Granita al Limone

5.0
(3)

Lemon granita is one of my favorite things about Sicily. It's easy to make at home if a trip to the island isn't possible. Using Meyer lemons, which tend to be sweeter than regular lemons, helps replicate the flavor of authentic Sicilian lemons. Serve as an after-dinner refresher or afternoon pick-me-up. And for a nice twist, add a small scoop to your iced tea, like they do in Sicily.

Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
5 mins
Additional Time:
3 hrs 15 mins
Total Time:
3 hrs 40 mins
Servings:
10
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Ingredients

Original recipe (1X) yields 10 servings

  • 2 cups water

  • 1 cup white sugar

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice

  • 5 lemon wheels (Optional)

  • 2 tablespoons lemon zest

Directions

  1. Heat water and sugar in a saucepan over medium, stirring until sugar melts; do not bring to a boil. Remove from heat when sugar has completely dissolved and water is no longer cloudy. Add lemon juice; stir until combined. Refrigerate until cold, about 30 minutes.

  2. Pour into a freezer-safe dish that has a tight-fitting lid; cover. Freeze until just begins to freeze around edges, but still slushy in the center, about 45 minutes.

  3. Lightly stir crystals, using a fork, from edge of granita mixture into the center and mix thoroughly. Cover and freeze until granita is nearly frozen, 30 to 40 minutes more.

  4. Lightly stir, using a fork, scraping crystals loose. Repeat freezing and stirring with a fork 3 to 4 times until crystals are separate and granita is light, dry, and fluffy.

  5. Garnish portions with 1/2 lemon wheels and fresh lemon zest on top.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

95 Calories
0g Fat
28g Carbs
1g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 10
Calories 95
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0g 0%
Sodium 3mg 0%
Total Carbohydrate 28g 10%
Dietary Fiber 3g 10%
Total Sugars 21g
Protein 1g 2%
Vitamin C 56mg 62%
Calcium 39mg 3%
Iron 0mg 2%
Potassium 114mg 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.