Save Pin A playful and refreshing summer fruit platter featuring a carved watermelon shark filled with juicy fruits, perfect for parties and kid-friendly gatherings.
This recipe brings joy to summer gatherings; my family always looks forward to the creative presentation and fresh fruit 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 Pin Sharing this board with my family always creates smiles and sparks conversation at our summer parties.
Additional Tips
For a tropical twist, consider adding mango or passion fruit to the fruit filling.
Required Tools
Ensure you have a large sharp knife and a paring knife ready, along with a melon baller and toothpicks for assembly.
Allergen Information
This recipe does not contain major allergens but always check gummy or marshmallow ingredients to ensure safety for guests.
Save Pin This watermelon shark board is the perfect centerpiece for any summer celebration, combining fun design with delicious healthy fruits.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I carve the watermelon to look like a shark?
Slice a thin bottom piece to stabilize the watermelon, cut an angled end to form the mouth opening, scoop out the flesh, and carve jagged teeth along the mouth edge with a paring knife.
- → What fruits work best for filling the watermelon shark?
Use a combination of diced watermelon flesh, green and red grapes, blueberries, strawberries, kiwi slices, orange segments, pineapple chunks, blackberries, cantaloupe, and honeydew balls for a colorful mix.
- → Can I prepare the fruit board ahead of time?
Fruits can be prepped in advance, but carve the watermelon shark just before serving to ensure freshness and prevent wilting.
- → Are there any decoration ideas besides fruit?
Optional additions include gummy fish or sharks for a playful element and mini marshmallows to mimic underwater bubbles, adding visual fun.
- → What tools are needed for assembly?
A large sharp knife and paring knife are essential for carving. A melon baller and toothpicks help with shaping and securing details. A large serving tray completes the presentation.
- → Is this suitable for special diets?
Yes, the board is vegetarian and gluten-free, but check labels on gummies or marshmallows for any allergens or gelatin.