Cucumber granita is a refreshing, light, and slightly sweet frozen dessert that is perfect for hot summer days. Made with fresh cucumber, a touch of citrus, and a hint of sweetness, this icy treat is both hydrating and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly refreshing and hydrating
- Requires minimal ingredients and effort
- A healthier alternative to store-bought frozen treats
- Customizable with herbs like mint or basil
- Perfect for cooling off during warm weather
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh cucumber
- Sugar
- Lemon or lime juice
- Water
- Optional: fresh mint or basil for added flavor
Directions
- Peel and chop the cucumbers into chunks.
- Blend the cucumbers with sugar, lemon or lime juice, and water until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove pulp (optional for a smoother texture).
- Pour the liquid into a shallow dish and place it in the freezer.
- Every 30 minutes, scrape the mixture with a fork to create icy crystals.
- Repeat the scraping process every 30 minutes for about 3-4 hours, or until the granita is fully frozen and has a fluffy, crystalline texture.
- Serve immediately or store in the freezer until ready to enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Freezing Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Herbal Twist: Add fresh mint or basil to the blend for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spicy Version: A pinch of cayenne or a few slices of jalapeño can add a surprising kick.
- Coconut Infusion: Replace water with coconut water for a tropical taste.
- Honey Substitute: Swap sugar with honey or agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
Storage/Reheating
- Store granita in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
- If it becomes too solid, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes and scrape again with a fork to restore texture.
FAQs
How long does cucumber granita last in the freezer?
Cucumber granita can be stored for up to a week, though it’s best enjoyed within a few days for optimal texture.
Can I make this without sugar?
Yes, you can substitute sugar with honey, agave syrup, or a sugar-free sweetener.
Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?
No, this recipe does not require an ice cream maker—just a fork and a little patience.
Can I use other citrus fruits instead of lemon or lime?
Yes, oranges or grapefruits can add a unique citrusy twist.
What type of cucumber works best?
English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers are ideal due to their mild flavor and fewer seeds.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance and store it in the freezer.
How do I prevent the granita from getting too hard?
Scrape the granita every 30 minutes as it freezes to maintain a fluffy texture.
Can I add alcohol to this granita?
Yes, a splash of gin, vodka, or white rum can enhance the flavor, but it may slightly alter the freezing texture.
Is cucumber granita healthy?
Yes, it is hydrating, low in calories, and free from artificial additives.
What can I serve cucumber granita with?
It pairs well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even as a palate cleanser between meals.
Conclusion
Cucumber granita is a simple yet refreshing frozen treat that’s easy to make and packed with hydration. Whether enjoyed on its own or customized with herbs and spices, this icy dessert is perfect for hot days and special occasions alike. Try it out and stay cool with every bite!
Print
Cucumber Granita
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cucumber granita is a light, refreshing frozen treat perfect for hot days. It’s made with fresh cucumber, a hint of citrus, and just the right amount of sweetness. This icy dessert is easy to make and requires no special equipment—just a fork and a bit of patience as it freezes. Serve it as a palate cleanser or a summer dessert!
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers (about 2 cups, peeled and chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (or lemon juice)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (or honey for a natural option)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Blend the mixture: In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped cucumber, lime juice, sugar, water, lime zest, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Strain (optional): If you prefer a smoother texture, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pulp.
- Freeze: Pour the liquid into a shallow baking dish and place it in the freezer.
- Scrape & fluff: After 30 minutes, use a fork to scrape the frozen edges into the center. Repeat this every 30 minutes for about 3 hours, until you achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- Serve: Spoon into bowls or glasses, garnish with fresh mint, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a herbal twist, add a few basil or mint leaves when blending.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar.
- Want a boozy version? Add a splash of gin or vodka before freezing.
- Store in the freezer for up to 1 week. Scrape again before serving if needed.
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