Red Apricot and Sparkling Wine Granita

1 . Stage

Mix sugar and water in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar has dissolved completely, about 7 minutes. Meanwhile, wash, pit, and mince apricots.

2 . Stage

Add the minced apricots to the sugar and water mixture. Reduce heat to medium. Cook until the apricots have liquefied, stirring and mashing constantly. Remove from heat and let cool.

3 . Stage

Pour Prosecco into the cooled apricot mixture; it will bubble and double in volume. Gently stir until fully incorporated and the bubbles have reduced slightly.

4 . Stage

Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and cover. Freeze until mixture begins to solidify, 1 to 2 hours, depending on your freezer. Scrape down the sides and mix the granita using a fork. Repeat every 30 minutes until the granita has become course and grainy, about 6 hours. Do not shake the container instead of scraping it with a fork; it is the action of scraping that forms the characteristic crystals that make granita unique.

5 . Stage

Scrape the granita into 8 serving dishes using a large spoon. Top with pomegranate seeds. Serve immediately.