Happy Watermelon Day! Yes, there really is a day to celebrate this refreshing fruit — and today is it. Let’s celebrate with a simple, three-ingredient watermelon granita. It’s quick, bright, and perfect for hot days.
This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh watermelon. Below is what you need and how to make it.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups seedless watermelon, pureed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Equipment:
2-quart saucepan; whisk; 9″ square pan or similar shallow baking dish; large fork or spoon for scraping
Instructions:
1. In the saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves and the mixture just reaches a simmer. Allow it to simmer gently for about 3 minutes to form a simple syrup, then remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
2. While the syrup cools, puree the watermelon in a blender or food processor until smooth. Strain if you prefer a very smooth texture, or leave the pulp for a bit more body.
3. Stir the cooled simple syrup into the watermelon puree and whisk until fully combined. Pour the mixture into the shallow pan and place it in the freezer.
4. After about 25 minutes, when the edges are starting to freeze, use a fork or spoon to scrape and rake the icy crystals toward the center. Return the pan to the freezer and repeat this scraping process every 20–30 minutes two or three more times, until the granita is fluffy and composed of light, icy flakes. Total freezing time will vary but expect roughly 1½ to 2 hours, with intermittent scraping.
5. When the granita has reached the desired texture, serve immediately in chilled bowls or glasses. For a small finishing touch, garnish with a fresh mint leaf or a thin lime wedge if you like — both complement the watermelon without changing the simple, clean flavor.
Recipe by Linda Jednaszewski
Photography and styling by Brittni Mehlhoff
Looking for more watermelon recipes and ideas to celebrate the day? Explore other watermelon-inspired treats and tips to make the most of the season’s sweetest fruit.