Summer is in full swing, and Giada De Laurentiis is making sure to keep busy with exciting new projects. From launching her latest cookbook, “Super-Italian,” to debuting her show “Giada In My Kitchen,” the celebrity chef is on the move. Most recently, she partnered with Peroni to release a boozy Italian ice, a delightful and refreshing twist that has caught the attention of many, especially as temperatures continue to soar into the high 90s.
The Italian ice takes me back to fond childhood memories of hot summer days spent with my grandpa, walking to the neighborhood corner store for a sweet treat. Day after day, I would indulge in blue raspberry slush that left my mouth stained blue and fueled a sugar rush strong enough to keep me playing in the sprinklers at the park for hours on end.
De Laurentiis also shares a similar nostalgic connection to Italian ice, reminiscing about the time spent with her daughter, Jade. She recalls a moment ten years ago while filming “Giada in Italy” on the Amalfi Coast when her daughter joined her for three weeks. After each episode, they would walk down to the water in Positano, where a stand sold Italian ice in lemon, strawberry, and raspberry flavors. They would sit on the beach, enjoying their ices and reflecting on the day’s events.
For those looking to recreate this joy in their own kitchens, De Laurentiis emphasizes that Italian ice can be made with just a few simple steps. With the right preparation, this humble dessert can become a meaningful treat that leaves lasting memories.
Italian ice, as De Laurentiis describes it, is a nostalgic frozen treat made by infusing finely shaved or granulated ice with sweet, fruit-based syrups like strawberry, raspberry, or lemon juice. Watching the syrup pour over the ice and slowly soak in adds an element of excitement to the experience.
If you’re interested in making Italian ice at home, De Laurentiis offers simple steps to follow. Start by making or buying an infused syrup, such as lemon, raspberry, or blueberry syrup. Most infused syrup recipes call for a combination of fruit, sugar, and water boiled and simmered to a syrupy consistency. Pour the syrup over shaved ice, created by blending ice cubes until fine and fluffy, for a refreshing homemade Italian ice to enjoy on hot summer days or share with loved ones.
To elevate your Italian ice into a showstopping dessert, De Laurentiis suggests swapping fruit-infused syrups for a boozy version, perfect for entertaining at parties. You can add beer like Peroni or a splash of rum or tequila to the syrup before drizzling it over the ice. Don’t forget to top it off with your favorite fruits or unique toppings like pomegranate seeds, crumbled potato chips, popcorn, or peanuts for a surprising twist.
Whether you stick with the classic fruit flavors or opt for a boozy variation, Italian ice is the quintessential summer treat that never fails to satisfy on hot days. Embrace the nostalgia and cool off with a refreshing, flavor-packed Italian ice that will transport you back to carefree summer days of the past.
