Description
Experience a refreshing burst of citrus and herbaceous flavor with this Lemon and Basil Granita. This vibrant, icy dessert combines the tartness of fresh lemon juice and zest with the aromatic freshness of basil, creating a perfect palate cleanser or light treat for warm days. Easy to make with just a few ingredients, this granita requires simple syrup preparation and a few hours of freezing with periodic scraping to achieve its signature fluffy, flaky texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Granita Base
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (approximately 4-6 lemons)
- Zest of 2 lemons
- A pinch of salt
Herbs
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
Instructions
- Make Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely, forming a clear simple syrup. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
- Blend Ingredients: Place the cooled simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, basil leaves, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt into a blender. Blend the mixture until it is smooth and the basil is fully incorporated.
- Strain Mixture: Pour the blended liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a shallow dish to remove the basil leaves and any solids, ensuring a smooth granita base.
- Freeze and Scrape: Place the shallow dish in the freezer. After 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the partially frozen mixture to start forming the fluffy texture. Repeat this scraping process every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours until the granita is fully frozen and flaky.
- Serve: Once the granita achieves a light, airy texture, serve it in chilled bowls or glasses. Just before serving, fluff the granita again with a fork to maintain its delicate texture.
Notes
- Ensure you scrape the granita regularly during freezing to prevent large ice crystals and achieve the perfect fluffy texture.
- For extra flavor, garnish with a small fresh basil leaf or lemon wedge.
- This granita can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the freezer; just remember to fluff again before serving.
- If basil flavor is too strong, reduce the amount slightly or substitute with mint leaves for a different herbal note.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best taste; bottled juice may affect the vibrant flavor.
