Refreshing Melon Granita

Elegant, easy to make, and ice cold, the Sicilian granita is an ideal treat for the dog days. This simplified take lets the sweetness of summer melon shine with no sugar added (and you won’t miss it, either).

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 melon (any variety works)
• 2 limes
• 3 sprigs of a fresh herb (ex: basil, thyme, mint, lemon verbena), plus additional for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

1. Scoop out melon from its rind.
2. In a blender, combine melon, zest and juice from limes, and the fresh herbs. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a shallow container and freeze for 1 hour.
4. After 1 hour, before the mixture is completely frozen, take out of the freezer and scrape the mixture with a fork, breaking up any large chunks or frozen pieces.
5. Place back in the freezer for another hour and scrape the mixture into flakes.
6. Repeat the process until it is to your desired consistency.
7. Spoon into bowls and serve with fresh herbs.