Guide Note

Granita, a semi-frozen dessert from the Italian island of Sicily, is made with sugar, water and fruit or other natural flavorings such as chocolate, coffee, mint or wine.

Fast Facts

1. Originated in Sicily, Italy
2. Popular summer dessert on the Mediterranean
3. Similar to sorbet or Italian ice
4. Used as a palate cleanser
5. Coarser in texture than sorbet

1. Almond
2. Lemon
3. Mint
4. Chocolate
5. Coffee
6. Orange
7. Strawberry
8. Grapefruit

Granitas and sorbets are often served as a transition between courses in elaborate meals. This course is called an "intermezzo," the Italian word that typically refers to a musical composition that is placed between acts in an opera or a larger work of music.

The intermezzo serves two functions: it refreshes the palate so that the person eating can fully experience the flavors of a new course and it gives the people serving the meal an opportunity to clear excess stemware and silverware.