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Cherry Granita: A Delicious Refreshment for Hot Summer Days

If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make dessert, cherry granita is the perfect choice! This dessert, with its smooth texture and intense cherry flavor, will transport you to a world of delightful aromas and sensations. Often associated with hot summer days, granita is a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal fruits while cooling down at the same time.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Freezing time: 2-3 hours
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 500 g fresh cherries (pitted)
- 300 ml water
- 50 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Making the syrup: In a medium saucepan, add the 300 ml of water and sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and let the mixture come to a boil. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. After about 5 minutes, the syrup will start to thicken slightly. It's important not to leave it on the heat too long, as you want to maintain a liquid consistency, not a caramel.

2. Adding the cherries: Once the syrup is ready, add the pitted cherries to the saucepan. Continue to simmer the mixture over low heat for 5-7 minutes. The cherries should soften, and their juice will combine with the syrup, creating a delicious base.

3. Blending the mixture: Using a blender or food processor, blend the cherry and syrup mixture until you achieve a smooth and homogeneous paste. If you prefer a granita with fruit pieces, you can leave some whole or chopped cherries in the mixture.

4. Freezing: Pour the obtained paste into a container and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap. Place the container in the freezer. After 30 minutes, take the container out and use a fork to stir the granita. This will help break up the ice crystals, giving it a finer texture.

5. Regular stirring: Repeat the stirring process every 30 minutes for 2-3 hours, until the granita is well frozen and fluffy. This step is essential to avoid the formation of ice shards.

6. Serving: When the granita is ready, take it out of the freezer and use a spoon or fork to fluff it up a bit before serving. You can place it in well-chilled cups or glasses. A garnish of fresh mint leaves and a few cherries on top will make your dessert look splendid!

Practical tips:

- Ingredients can vary: If you don’t have cherries available, don’t worry! You can substitute cherries with other fruits like strawberries, sour cherries, or peaches, using the same technique.
- For a richer taste: Adding a spoonful of whipped cream on top of the granita will provide a creamy contrast to the refreshing texture.
- Storing the granita: If there is leftover granita, you can keep it in an airtight container in the freezer. Make sure to stir it gently before serving to avoid ice crystal formation.

Nutritional benefits:

Cherry granita is not only a refreshing treat but also a good source of vitamins! Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, making them not only delicious but also healthy. This dessert is low in calories, with about 120 calories per serving, making it an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy something sweet without compromising their diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen cherries? Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to let them thaw and drain before using.
- How long can granita be stored in the freezer? Granita can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 weeks, but it is best consumed freshly made.
- What drinks pair well with cherry granita? A glass of prosecco or a fresh fruit cocktail will perfectly complement this dessert. Additionally, a cold mint tea can be a wonderful choice!

Cherry granita is a quick and simple dessert, ideal for enjoying with loved ones. Savor every bite and enjoy the summer that brings you these delicious fruits!