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 is one of my favorite party platters because it captivates kids and adults alike with its creative presentation 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 one third 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 platter always creates memorable moments at family gatherings especially with kids fascinated by the shark design.
Tips for Carving
Use a small sharp paring knife for detailed teeth carving and secure fruit eyes with toothpicks carefully to avoid slipping.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a citrusy white wine or sparkling lemonade to complement the fresh fruit flavors.
Storage Tips
Prep the fruit filling in advance but carve the watermelon shark just before serving to keep it fresh and visually appealing.
Save Enjoy this playful fruit board as a refreshing centerpiece to your next summer party or family gathering.
Cooking Questions
- → How do you carve the watermelon shark?
Slice one end of the watermelon at an angle to form the mouth opening, scoop out the flesh for filling, and carve jagged teeth along the edge. Add details like eyes with blueberries and apple or banana slices.
- → What fruits work best as the filling?
Seedless green and red grapes, blueberries, strawberries, kiwis, oranges, pineapple chunks, blackberries, cantaloupe balls, and honeydew balls create a vibrant mix inside and around the shark.
- → Can this board be prepared ahead of time?
Fruit can be prepped in advance, but carving the watermelon shark right before serving maintains freshness and presentation quality.
- → Are there any suggested decorations?
Optional gummy fish or sharks and mini marshmallows can be added to mimic underwater bubbles, enhancing the playful look.
- → What tools are recommended for assembling the board?
A sharp large knife and a paring knife for carving, a melon baller for shaping fruit, toothpicks for securing details, and a large serving platter or board are helpful.