Watermelon Cucumber Granita

This light frozen dessert is cold and slushy, perfect for cooling off this summer or enjoying as a palate cleanser. Made with just 4 ingredients, Watermelon Cucumber Granita is simple to prepare and requires minimal effort. I love the combination of cucumber and watermelon here, it feels like a frozen spa water and it’s super refreshing! You can also make it a boozy treat–just add a little gin or vodka, as I did in this Watermelon Granita Cocktail.

What is a granita?

Granita is a frozen Italian dessert made of fruit, sugar, and liquid. It has a coarser, icier texture than sorbet.

The Origins of Granita

Granita originated in Sicily, Italy, during the Middle Ages when Arabs dominated the area. Originally called “sherbet,” it was made from snow from Mount Etna and was a special treat for royals. In Sicily, granita is commonly eaten with brioche for breakfast.

Watermelon Cucumber Granita Ingredients

All you need is 4 ingredients to make this vegan watermelon cucumber granita. See the recipe card below for the exact measurements.

Only 4 Ingredients: Besides watermelon and cucumber, you only need sweetener and lime juice. Easy to Make: You’ll need a food processor or blender to puree the granita ingredients, but no special equipment is required to achieve its signature icy texture. Sugar Free: I personally love this with monk fruit sweetener (you only need a little) so it’s also a sugar-free treat. Dietary Restrictions: This healthy watermelon cucumber granita is dairy- free, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and Weight Watchers-friendly.

If you make this icy watermelon granita, I would love to see it. Tag me in your photos on Instagram or Facebook!

Watermelon: For the sweetest granita, use in-season, ripe watermelon. Cucumber: Peel and remove the seeds from an English or Persian cucumber. Sweetener: I prefer Lakanto monk fruit for a sugar-free, zero-calorie option, but granulated sugar will work, too. Lime Juice for a tangy, bright citrus flavor

How to Make Granita

Plan to make this simple granita recipe when you’ll be home for a while. The watermelon-cucumber mixture takes about 5 hours to get icy, but the process is mostly hands-off. Scroll to the recipe card below for the complete instructions.

Variations

Fruit: Swap watermelon for pineapple, mango, or strawberries. Cucumber: If you’d rather have a granita with only fruit, omit the cucumber and double the watermelon or add 1 ½ cups of another fruit. Citrus: Substitute lemon or orange juice. Watermelon Mint Granita: Add mint to the blender. Liquor: Add vodka, gin, or rum just before serving for a granita cocktail.