Light, fruity and refreshing, granita is a simple frozen dessert that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot summer’s day.

  • Ingredients:
  • 1 cantaloupe (about 3 pounds)
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp water
  • Directions:
  • Using a sharp knife, cut melon in half lengthwise. Remove seeds with a spoon, and discard. Slice off and discard skin and pale-green flesh. Cut melon into large chunks.
  • Place melon chunks into a food processor, and puree until smooth. Transfer to a nonreactive stainless steel bowl, and set aside.
  • Combine sugar, lemon juice, and the water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat until mixture has thickened slightly. Remove from heat; let cool completely.
  • Stir sugar syrup into melon puree; place in freezer, uncovered, until mixture is icy and holding shape.
  • With a fork, break up the granita mixture until it’s the consistency you want.
  • To serve, sugar the rims of four glasses and divide mixture among them. Optional: serve with a sliced wedge of cantaloupe.