Lemon and Thyme Granita

This lemon and thyme granita is a refreshing and flavorful dessert that is perfect for a hot summer day. It is made with just a few simple ingredients and can be easily prepared in advance. The granita has a light and icy texture, with a bright and tangy flavor. The thyme adds a subtle herbal note that complements the lemon perfectly.

The history of granita is a long and winding one, dating back to the Roman Empire. The ancient Romans would often enjoy a frozen dessert made from fruit juice and snow. This dessert was called "nivata", and it was a popular way to cool down during the hot summer months. Over time, nivata evolved into the granita that we know today. Granita is now enjoyed all over the world, and it is a particularly popular dessert in Italy. It is often served as a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 5 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, thyme leaves, and lemon zest.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
5. To serve, scrape the granita with a fork and serve in glasses.

Why It Works

• The sugar in the granita helps to prevent the ice crystals from becoming too large, resulting in a smooth and icy texture.
• The lemon juice adds a bright and tangy flavor to the granita, while the thyme adds a subtle herbal note that complements the lemon perfectly.
• Freezing the granita for at least 4 hours allows the flavors to meld together and develop, resulting in a delicious and refreshing dessert.