Cucumber-Chile Granite
A refreshing cucumber-chile granita with a spicy kick and tangy citrus flavor, perfect for hot days or as a unique palate cleanser for spice lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients except the matchstick cucumber pieces in a food processor or blender.
- Cover and process or blend until nearly smooth.
- Press mixture through a fine mesh strainer, 1/3 at a time, holding the strainer over a bowl to catch juices.
- Discard solids and transfer strained juices to a 2-quart square baking dish.
- Cover and freeze for 3 to 4 hours or until firmly frozen.
- Break up the frozen mixture.
- Transfer mixture to a chilled large bowl.
- Beat with an electric mixer until slushy, but not melted.
- Return to the baking dish and cover.
- Freeze for 2 to 3 hours or until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, try using Persian cucumbers for a sweeter taste. If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of jalapeno to your liking or substitute with a milder pepper. For a more vibrant color, consider adding a few mint leaves during blending. This recipe can also be adapted by incorporating different fruit juices, such as lime or grapefruit, for a refreshing twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cucumber-Chile Granite in chilled bowls or glasses to keep it cool. Garnish with the optional matchstick cucumber pieces for added crunch and visual appeal. This refreshing dish pairs beautifully with Spicy Guacamole or can be enjoyed as a palate cleanser between courses in a Mexican-inspired meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best consumed within a week for optimal flavor and texture. If the granite becomes too hard, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving, or scrape it with a fork to refresh its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber-Chile Granite contains roughly 137 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the granite a day or two in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly in the freezer. Before serving, allow it to sit for a few minutes at room temperature to soften slightly for easier scooping.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the granite?
If you prefer a less sweet granite, reduce the sugar amount by half and taste as you blend. You can always adjust the sweetness with additional lemon juice or a natural sweetener like agave syrup for a different flavor profile.
What other ingredients can I add to this granite?
You can experiment with various herbs like cilantro or basil for an added flavor twist. Additionally, incorporating lime juice or zest can give a citrusy kick that complements the cucumber and jalapeno well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).