Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita
This Fresh Mint Ice Cream with Salted Watermelon Granita is a bright, elegant summer dessert inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Creamy, herbaceous mint ice cream meets icy, lightly salted watermelon granita, creating the perfect contrast of rich and refreshing. It’s naturally non-spicy, not overly sweet, and stunning for entertaining.
Prep & Cook Time
Mint Ice Cream Prep: 15 minutes
Infusion + Chilling: 2–4 hours
Granita Freeze Time: 3–4 hours
Total (inactive included): ~6 hours
Ingredients
Fresh Mint Ice Cream
1½ cups whole milk
1½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup sugar
1½ cups fresh mint leaves (packed)
Pinch of salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional (extra freshness): 1 tsp lemon zest
Salted Watermelon Granita
4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1½ tbsp fresh lime or lemon juice
1–2 tbsp honey or sugar (optional, to taste)
¼ tsp fine sea salt (key for flavor balance)
Instructions
1. Infuse the Mint
In a saucepan, combine milk, cream, sugar, salt, and mint leaves.
Heat gently until steaming (do not boil).
Remove from heat, cover, and let steep 30–45 minutes.
2. Strain & Chill
Strain out mint leaves, pressing gently.
Stir in vanilla and lemon zest (if using).
Chill mixture 2–4 hours or until fully cold.
3. Churn the Ice Cream
Churn in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Transfer to a container and freeze 2 hours to firm up.
4. Make the Watermelon Granita
Blend watermelon, citrus juice, sweetener (if using), and sea salt until smooth.
Pour into a shallow freezer-safe dish.
Freeze, scraping with a fork every 30 minutes, until fluffy ice crystals form (about 3–4 hours).
To Serve
Scoop mint ice cream into chilled bowls or glasses.
Top generously with salted watermelon granita.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of olive oil (very Mediterranean!).
Notes & Tips
Use very fresh mint—peppermint or spearmint both work.
Salt in the granita enhances sweetness—don’t skip it.
For smoother ice cream without a machine, freeze and stir every 30 minutes for 3 hours.
Serve immediately for best texture contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this dessert very sweet?
No—it’s light, clean, and refreshing.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes—use full-fat coconut milk and coconut cream.
Can I prepare it ahead?
Absolutely—both components keep well for 2–3 days frozen.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 290 kcal
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Fat: 19 g
Fiber: 1 g