Granita is a frozen dessert that originates from Italy and is made by freezing a mixture of sugar, water, and flavorings such as fruit juice. Synonyms for granita can include sorbet, flavored ice, shaved ice, slush, or Italian ice. These terms are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle differences between them. Sorbet typically has a smoother texture and is made with a higher fruit content, while flavored ice or Italian ice is typically made with a combination of fruit juice and syrup. Shaved ice and slush are typically coarser in texture and made by shaving ice into thin layers and then adding flavoring. Regardless of the name, these frozen treats are perfect for hot summer days.