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Mint Watermelon Granita

Category: Sweet Treats That Define American Baking

Enjoy a frozen delight made by blending sweet watermelon with aromatic mint, then freezing the mixture and scraping it into delicate crystals. The granita is brightened with a splash of lime and just enough sugar for balance, delivering a treat that's both light and refreshing. Serve fluffed into chilled glasses and garnished with extra mint for a touch of elegance, making it a standout finish to summer meals. With minimal effort and basic kitchen tools, this frosty dessert cools you down and highlights the best of fresh fruit.

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Updated on Mon, 30 Jun 2025 11:26:12 GMT
A glass bowl filled with red frozen fruit. Save
A glass bowl filled with red frozen fruit. | krispyrecipes.com

Nothing cools me down on a sweltering day quite like this mint watermelon granita Its icy texture and vibrant watermelon flavor make it the ultimate summer refresher The hint of fresh mint lifts the fruit and a splash of lime ties it all together for a dessert that feels both fun and sophisticated

After finding the combo in an Italian cookbook years ago this quickly became my signature summer treat I love serving it at backyard cookouts and it never fails to impress

Ingredients

  • Seedless watermelon: This is the star of the show Choose one that feels heavy for its size and has a deep yellow underbelly for peak ripeness
  • Fresh mint leaves: These add cool herbal notes Choose bright green unblemished leaves for the most aromatic punch
  • Lime juice: Offers just enough tartness to keep the flavor lively Roll the lime on the counter before juicing to get out every last drop
  • Granulated sugar: Rounds out the sweetness Taste your melon first then tweak if needed Sweeter fruit might need less sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Watermelon:
Remove the rind and cut the watermelon into chunks Refrigerate pieces first if you want a speedier freeze
Blend It All Together:
Add watermelon chunks fresh mint lime juice and sugar to your blender or food processor Blend on high until completely smooth with no visible mint pieces at all
Adjust and Strain:
Taste the mix and adjust sweetness if you like For an ultra smooth texture strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve into a shallow freezer safe dish catching solids
First Freeze and Scrape:
Freeze the mixture for about 45 to 60 minutes The edges will start to freeze first Use a fork to scrape and pull ice crystals into the center
Repeat Scraping:
Every 30 minutes for the next 3 to 4 hours pull out and rake through with the fork breaking up ice that forms and fluffing it into snow like granita
Serve and Garnish:
When the granita is all icy and fluffy spoon it into chilled glasses Top with extra mint leaves and serve straight away for maximum refreshment
A bowl of red fruit with a spoon in it. Save
A bowl of red fruit with a spoon in it. | krispyrecipes.com

The fresh mint is my personal favorite here Its cooling aroma instantly transforms simple watermelon into something extraordinary My family laughs that I grow mint in the garden only to have an endless supply for this dessert Our summer evenings are not complete without it

Storage Tips

Store leftover granita in a tightly sealed freezer container To serve later fluff with a fork to break up any icy spots and refresh the snowy texture If it sets too hard just let it rest on the counter a few minutes then scrape

Ingredient Substitutions

Try basil in place of mint for a twist or use lemon juice instead of lime For a grown up version a touch of light rum can be added before freezing Each variation brings a new mood to this simple dessert

A glass of red fruit juice with a mint garnish. Save
A glass of red fruit juice with a mint garnish. | krispyrecipes.com

Serving Suggestions

Serve granita in small chilled bowls or glasses Try adding a curl of lime zest on top or layer with cubes of fresh watermelon If you want a showstopper float a scoop in sparkling water for a festive granita spritz

Granita in Italian Summer Culture

Granita is Italy’s answer to the heat Hailing from Sicily it is enjoyed at breakfast with brioche or served as a palate cleanser before dessert This watermelon mint twist nods to the classics but makes the most of summer produce

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different fruit?

Yes, try honeydew, cantaloupe, or strawberries for a similar icy treat with different flavors.

→ How do I get fine crystals?

Freeze the blended mixture in a shallow dish, and scrape every 30 minutes with a fork for even, fluffy texture.

→ What can I use if I don't have fresh mint?

Substitute with basil or a few drops of natural mint extract, tasting as you go for balance.

→ Is it possible to reduce sugar?

Yes, adjust sugar to taste or use a natural alternative, depending on how sweet your watermelon is.

→ How long will granita keep in the freezer?

Store covered for up to 1 week; fluff with a fork before serving to restore a light, crystalline texture.

Mint Watermelon Granita

Frozen watermelon and mint create an icy treat with bright, refreshing flavors. Ideal for hot weather.

Preparation Time
15 min
Cooking Time
240 min
Total Time
255 min

Recipe Category: All-American Desserts

Skill Level: Beginner

Cuisine Type: Italian

Recipe Yield: 6 Servings

Dietary Options: Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Fruit & Herbs

01 1.5 kg seedless watermelon, rind removed, cut into chunks
02 20 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish

→ Citrus

03 Juice of 1 lime (approximately 2 tablespoons)

→ Sweetener

04 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, or to taste

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Combine watermelon chunks, mint leaves, lime juice, and sugar in a blender or food processor.

Step 02

Blend until the mixture is completely smooth. Taste and add more sugar if desired.

Step 03

Pour the purée through a fine mesh sieve into a shallow, freezer-safe dish to remove pulp for an extra smooth texture.

Step 04

Freeze for 45–60 minutes, then scrape the edges with a fork to break up any forming ice crystals.

Step 05

Return the dish to the freezer. Every 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape and fluff the mixture, repeating 3–4 times in total, until fully frozen and the texture is light and crystalline, about 4 hours.

Step 06

Fluff the granita with a fork and spoon it into chilled glasses. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.

Additional Notes

  1. For additional flavor, a splash of rum or vodka may be added before freezing—adults only.
  2. Adjust the sugar depending on the natural sweetness of your watermelon.
  3. For visual appeal, garnish with lime zest or a wedge.
  4. Store leftover granita covered in the freezer for up to 1 week; re-fluff with a fork before serving.

Required Tools

  • Blender or food processor
  • Fine mesh sieve
  • Shallow freezer-safe dish
  • Fork
  • Citrus juicer

Allergen Information

Make sure to review each ingredient for potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Free from major allergens including gluten, dairy, eggs, nuts, and soy. Verify ingredient labels for safety.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 65
  • Fats: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Proteins: 1 g