Lemon Basil Granita with Caramelized Peaches

Lemon-Basil Granita with Caramelized Peaches
Category: Desserts
Servings: 6

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Granita

   • Start by combining the water and sugar in a medium-sized saucepan. Use a whisk to mix them together until well combined.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes, or until the sugar has completely dissolved. Once dissolved, remove the pot from the heat.
   • Cover the pot with plastic wrap to keep it warm.
   • Wash the basil leaves quickly under cold water and set them aside.
   • Squeeze the lemons to extract 120g of juice. Strain the juice to remove any seeds or pulp.

2. Infuse the Basil and Lemon

   • Once the syrup has cooled, add the fresh basil and the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the pot. Stir well to combine. The mixture should take on a brilliant green hue, with no visible basil leaves remaining.
   • Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish and cover it with plastic wrap.

3. Freeze the Granita

   • Place the baking dish in the freezer for about one hour. Afterward, remove it from the freezer and use a spoon to break up the ice crystals that will have formed. Stir the granita to achieve a slushy texture.
   • Return the dish to the freezer and repeat the stirring process after another hour. Continue this cycle for 2-3 hours, stirring every hour until the granita is firm and fully set.

4. Caramelize the Peaches

   • While the granita is freezing, prepare the caramelized peaches. Wash the peaches but leave them wet, and place them whole in a saucepan.
   • Sprinkle one tablespoon of sugar on each peach and cover them with basil leaves.
   • Add a small amount of water to the pan, enough to cover the bottom.
   • Bring the pan to a simmer over low heat and cook the peaches until they soften, about 10-12 minutes. Once they are tender, remove the peaches from the heat.
   • Discard the basil leaves and allow the peaches to cool.
   • Once cool enough to handle, peel the peaches carefully, ensuring not to damage the flesh. Slice them into wedges and set aside.

5. Serve the Granita with Caramelized Peaches

   • To serve, arrange four peach wedges on each plate.
   • Use a melon baller or spoon to scrape the granita into a semi-sphere and place it on top of the peaches.
   • Drizzle some of the reserved peach syrup over the peaches, being careful not to pour it over the granita.
   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an added burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

6. Enjoy

   • Serve immediately and enjoy this refreshing, light dessert that combines the vibrant flavors of lemon and basil with the sweetness of caramelized peaches!