Save to Pinterest A playful and refreshing summer fruit platter featuring a carved watermelon shark filled with juicy fruits, perfect for parties and kid-friendly gatherings.
I first made this for a family picnic and it was an instant hit with both kids and adults alike
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 to Pinterest This recipe always brings smiles and laughter when shared with my family
Notes
For a tropical twist add mango or passion fruit. Serve chilled for extra refreshment and pair 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.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 120 per serving. Total Fat: 0.5 g. Carbohydrates: 30 g. Protein: 2 g.
Save to Pinterest This Watermelon Shark Bite Board is the perfect centerpiece to impress your guests with minimal effort
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I carve the watermelon shark mouth?
Slice off a thin flat piece from the bottom so the watermelon sits securely. Cut about one-third off one end at an angle to create the mouth opening. Scoop out the flesh from this section to use as part of the fruit filling and carve jagged teeth along the edge using a paring knife.
- → What fruits complement the watermelon shark best?
A mix of grapes, strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, oranges, pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew, and blackberries adds vibrant colors and refreshing flavors that balance well with the watermelon.
- → Can I prepare the fruit board ahead of time?
You can prep all the fruit in advance, but carve the watermelon shark just before serving to maintain freshness and appearance.
- → Are there any recommended garnishes for this board?
Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing aroma, while optional gummy fish or mini marshmallows can create a playful ocean-themed effect.
- → What tools are needed for assembling the board?
A large sharp knife and a paring knife are essential for carving. A melon baller is optional for scooping melon balls. Toothpicks help secure fruit details like eyes.