Watermelon Margarita Granita
Watermelon granita is a light, refreshing dessert—add tequila and triple sec, and it’s ready to party! Inspired by the viral trick of grating frozen watermelon wedges for an icy treat, this recipe simplifies and elevates the idea by using hollowed-out watermelon halves. Fill them with a mixture of watermelon juice, sugar, and lime juice, freeze, then rake with a fork for a fluffy granita served right in the watermelon bowl. A drizzle of booze turns it into a dreamy margarita-inspired treat. You can start out enjoying it with a spoon, or let it melt a bit and switch to a straw—either way, don’t forget the tiny umbrellas. Leave out the alcohol for a family-friendly version.
Directions
Trim a thin slice from the stem end and opposite end of each watermelon so the bowls will sit flat and level. Cut the watermelons in half crosswise, then hollow each half out with a spoon, leaving a 1/2-inch-thick shell (be careful not to break through the bottom). Reserve the flesh and place all 4 watermelon halves on a rimmed baking sheet. Working in batches, blend the watermelon flesh until smooth, then measure out 8 cups of juice (save any remaining for drinking). Whisk the juice with sugar and lime juice until the sugar dissolves, then pour the mixture evenly into the hollowed-out halves. Carefully place them in the freezer (make sure they sit flat) and freeze until solid, about 8 hours.
Meanwhile, mix tequila and triple sec in an airtight container and refrigerate. When ready to serve, scrape the frozen watermelon with a fork to make fluffy ice (don’t break the shells). Drizzle 3 tablespoons of the tequila mixture over the ice, then garnish each half with a lime wheel and a cocktail umbrella. As the granita melts, swap spoons for straws and enjoy icy-cold watermelon margaritas.
