Save A playful and refreshing summer fruit platter featuring a carved watermelon shark filled with juicy fruits, perfect for parties and kid-friendly gatherings.
This was a huge hit at my last summer party everyone loved the creativity and fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Watermelon Shark: 1 large seedless watermelon 2 blueberries (for eyes) 2 slices of apple or banana (for eye whites) 1 small paring knife (for carving)
- Fruit Filling & Board Garnish: 2 cups seedless green grapes 2 cups seedless red grapes 1 pint blueberries 1 pint strawberries hulled and halved 2 kiwis peeled and sliced 2 oranges peeled and segmented 1 cup pineapple chunks 1/2 cup blackberries 1 cup cantaloupe balls or cubes 1 cup honeydew balls or cubes Fresh mint leaves (optional for garnish)
- Extras (optional): 1 cup gummy fish or sharks (for decoration) 1/2 cup mini marshmallows (to mimic bubbles)
Instructions
- Prepare the Watermelon Shark:
- Slice a thin piece off the bottom of the watermelon so it sits flat Cut about 1/3 off one end at an angle to create the sharks mouth opening Scoop out the flesh from the cut section reserving it for the fruit filling With a paring knife carve jagged teeth along the edge of the mouth Use toothpicks to attach apple or banana slices for the eyes above the mouth and secure a blueberry in the center of each
- Assemble the Fruit Board:
- Dice reserved watermelon flesh into bite-sized pieces Fill the inside of the sharks mouth with a mix of watermelon grapes berries and orange segments to look like shark bait Arrange the remaining fruits and melon balls around the shark on a large tray or board alternating colors and shapes for visual appeal Scatter gummy fish or marshmallows if using and garnish with fresh mint leaves
- Serve:
- Serve immediately providing small tongs toothpicks or forks for easy fruit picking
Save My kids always ask to help carve the shark and then enjoy eating the fruits together while sharing laughs.
Required Tools
Large sharp knife Paring knife Melon baller (optional) Cutting board Large serving platter or board Toothpicks
Allergen Information
Contains None of the major 8 allergens If adding gummies or marshmallows check labels for gelatin or allergens Always verify all packaged products for potential allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 120 Total Fat 0.5 g Carbohydrates 30 g Protein 2 g
Save This fruit board is an impressive yet simple way to elevate any summer gathering or kids party.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I carve the shark mouth safely?
Use a small paring knife and cut at an angle to create the mouth opening. Carve jagged teeth carefully along the edge while holding the watermelon steady.
- → What fruits work best inside the watermelon shark?
Seedless grapes, blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, oranges, pineapple chunks, and melon balls combine well for bright colors and complementary flavors.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
It's best to carve the watermelon shark just before serving to keep freshness. Fruit filling can be prepped a few hours in advance and kept chilled.
- → How can I make the display more kid-friendly?
Add gummy fish or mini marshmallows as playful decorations, and provide small tongs or toothpicks for easy fruit picking.
- → Are there any allergen considerations?
This arrangement is naturally free from major allergens, but check labels on gummies or marshmallows for gelatin or additives if included.