How to Make Lemon Granita

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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(26 Ratings)

Tossing back lemon granita in the summer is practically a habit in southern Italy. This granular, slightly slushy ice dessert is very refreshing and easy to make at home.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

3 lemons
1/2 c. sugar
2/3 c. water
Groceries
Citrus Reamer
Saucepans
Strainers
Zesters
Saucepans
Strainers

Step 1

Use a zester to strip the zest from the lemons and chop it roughly.
Step 2

Place it in a saucepan with the sugar and water and heat until it simmers.
Step 3

Wait for the mixture to simmer, then strain it into a shallow container.
Step 4

Let it cool to room temperature, then juice all three lemons into it, straining out the seeds and loose pulp.
Step 5

Stir the mixture together well, then freeze.
Step 6

Stir it together as it freezes, loosening any ice film that forms and crushing any lumps. Repeat every 20 minutes or so - more often once it's almost frozen. This step creates the granita's signature texture.
Step 7

Serve it when it's still slightly slushy.

Tips & Warnings

Use big lemons for this recipe. If you have access to a lemon tree, use fresh tree-ripened lemons.
This dish is traditionally very tart. You can add sugar to the recipe, or drizzle a simple sugar syrup onto each serving.

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