Description
Have you ever sipped a drink that’s so cool and refreshing it feels like summer in a bowl? That’s what a Watermelon Margarita Granita is – a frosty, fruity dessert with a fun margarita twist, served right in a watermelon shell! But here’s the big question: How can something so simple taste like a tropical vacation? The secret is fresh watermelon, a splash of tequila, and a few easy tricks we’ll share today.
Ingredients
To make Watermelon Margarita Granita, you’ll need a few ingredients for the granita and garnish. Here’s what you’ll use and why each one matters:
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Mini Seedless Watermelons (2, about 5 lbs each): The star ingredient, providing sweet, juicy flavor and a fun serving bowl. Seedless makes prep easier.
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Sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the juice and helps create a fluffy texture when frozen.
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Lime Juice (¼ cup, from about 3 limes): Adds a zesty, tangy kick that screams margarita.
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Tequila Blanco (½ cup, 4 oz): Brings the classic margarita flavor. Use a good-quality brand for the best taste.
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Triple Sec (¼ cup, 2 oz): Adds a sweet, citrusy note to enhance the margarita vibe.
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Lime Wheels (4, for garnish): A pretty, fresh touch for each serving.
Substitutions and Variations
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Non-Alcoholic: Skip tequila and triple sec; use ¾ cup orange juice or sparkling water instead.
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Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free!
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Vegan: Also naturally vegan, no changes needed.
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No Sugar: Use honey or agave syrup, but start with ⅓ cup and adjust to taste.
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Fruit Swap: Try cantaloupe or honeydew for a different melon flavor.
These ingredients are easy to find and make a granita that’s both refreshing and festive!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Watermelon Shells
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Trim a thin slice from the stem end and opposite end of each of 2 mini seedless watermelons so they sit flat.
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Cut each watermelon in half crosswise to make 4 halves.
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Scoop out the flesh with a spoon, leaving a ½-inch-thick shell. Be careful not to break through the bottom.
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Place the 4 watermelon halves on a rimmed baking sheet.
Tip: Use a sturdy spoon or melon baller to scoop cleanly. Save any extra flesh for smoothies or snacking.
Step 2: Make the Watermelon Juice
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Working in batches, blend the watermelon flesh in a blender until smooth.
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Measure out 8 cups of juice and pour into a large bowl. Save extra juice for drinking or other recipes.
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Whisk in ½ cup sugar and ¼ cup lime juice until the sugar dissolves.
Tip: Strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve if you want it extra smooth, but a little pulp adds texture.
Step 3: Freeze the Granita
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Pour the watermelon mixture evenly into the 4 watermelon shells.
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Carefully place the baking sheet with the filled shells in the freezer, ensuring they sit flat and level.
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Freeze for about 8 hours, until solid.
Tip: Check after 2 hours and stir gently with a fork to encourage a fluffy texture. Keep the shells level to avoid spills.
Step 4: Prepare the Margarita Mixture
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In an airtight container, mix ½ cup tequila blanco and ¼ cup triple sec.
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Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tip: Chill the mixture to keep the granita cold when you drizzle it on. Use a good-quality tequila for the best flavor.
Step 5: Serve the Granita
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Remove the watermelon shells from the freezer.
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Scrape the frozen mixture with a fork to create fluffy, icy flakes. Be careful not to break the shells.
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Drizzle 3 tbsp of the tequila mixture over each granita half.
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Garnish each with a lime wheel and a cocktail umbrella. Serve with spoons, switching to straws as it melts.
Tip: Serve immediately after scraping for the fluffiest texture. Add straws for sipping as it turns into a margarita!