Shellfish Free Watermelon Mint Granita
Few summer desserts are as effortlessly refreshing as a granita made with peak-season watermelon, and this one delivers that icy, flaky texture that practically melts on your tongue. A quick honey-mint syrup steeps right on the stovetop, infusing every crystal with a subtle herbal sweetness that plays beautifully against the bright hit of fresh lime juice. The whole process is surprisingly hands-off — you blend, strain, and then just return to the freezer every half hour or so to scrape the mixture into those signature loose, feathery shards. No special equipment, no ice cream maker, just a fork and a little patience. Since this is a naturally fruit-forward frozen dessert built entirely from whole, simple ingredients, there's zero guesswork about what's in it — no hidden additives or seafood-derived processing aids to worry about. It's the kind of thing you can make ahead and scoop straight into chilled glasses when guests arrive, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint for a look that feels far fancier than the effort involved.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
6 servings
- 6 cups seedless watermelon, cut into 1-inch cubes (about ½ small watermelon)
- 3 tbsp honey
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 1 lime)
- 1 pinch salt
For serving
- fresh mint sprigs, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the honey and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the honey fully dissolves, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and add the mint leaves. Let steep for 5 minutes, then strain out and discard the mint leaves.
- 2
Working in batches if needed, blend the watermelon cubes in a blender until completely smooth, about 30 seconds.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!