Cherry Italian Ice

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound frozen pitted cherries
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 5 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes.
4. Add the frozen cherries to the cooled syrup and stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Pour the puree into a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until solid.
7. Before serving, let the Italian ice soften slightly at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 150 per serving (1/8 of the total recipe)
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Protein: 1 gram
• Fat: 0 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Refreshing and icy
• Sweet and tart cherry flavor
• Smooth and creamy texture

User Comments:

• "This Italian ice is the perfect summer treat! It's so refreshing and delicious."
• "My kids loved it! It's a great way to get them to eat fruit."
• "I love that it's so easy to make. I always have the ingredients on hand."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use frozen cherries that have not been sweetened or artificially flavored.
• If you don't have a blender, you can use an immersion blender to puree the mixture.
• For a more intense cherry flavor, use a dark-colored cherry variety, such as Bing or Rainier cherries.