Save A playful and refreshing summer fruit platter featuring a carved watermelon shark filled with juicy fruits, perfect for parties and kid-friendly gatherings.
Creating the watermelon shark was a delightful experience that brought smiles and excitement to our family gathering this summer.
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 This recipe has become a cherished part of our summer celebrations, bringing everyone together to enjoy tasty fruit in a fun way.
Notes
For a tropical twist, add mango or passion fruit. If making ahead, prep fruit in advance but carve the watermelon shark just before serving for best freshness. Serve chilled for extra refreshment. Pairs well with a citrusy white wine or sparkling lemonade.
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.
Save Enjoy this delightful fruit platter that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I carve the watermelon shark mouth?
Slice off about one-third of the watermelon at an angle to form the mouth opening, then scoop out the flesh carefully. Use a paring knife to carve jagged teeth along the edge.
- → Which fruits work best for filling the shark and board?
Seedless grapes, blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, oranges, pineapple chunks, cantaloupe, honeydew, and blackberries provide a colorful and tasty mix.
- → Can I prepare the fruit board ahead of time?
Yes, dice and prep the fruits in advance, but carve the watermelon shark just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → Are there decoration options for this fruit board?
Optional gummy fish or mini marshmallows can mimic bubbles, and fresh mint leaves add a fragrant touch.
- → What utensils are recommended for carving the watermelon shark?
A large sharp knife for cutting, alongside a small paring knife for detailed carving, works best.
- → Is this board suitable for special diets?
Yes, it is vegetarian and gluten-free, with no major allergens unless gummies or marshmallows with gelatin are added.