Pin It A playful and refreshing summer fruit platter featuring a carved watermelon shark filled with juicy fruits, perfect for parties and kid-friendly gatherings.
This watermelon shark bite board has become a hit at all my summer parties, bringing smiles to 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
Pin It Our family loves gathering around the fruit board during summer evenings sharing stories and enjoying healthy treats.
Preparation Tips
Use a sharp paring knife for precise carving and chill all fruits before assembling for best freshness and taste.
Variations
Add tropical fruits like mango or passion fruit for a new flavor twist or swap fruits based on seasonal availability.
Storage
Cover leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator; best enjoyed within a day for optimal freshness.
Pin It This watermelon shark bite board combines creativity and freshness in an easy summer recipe your guests will love.
Questions About This Recipe
- → How do I carve the watermelon to resemble a shark?
Start by slicing a thin piece off the watermelon bottom for stability. Cut one end at an angle to form the shark's mouth opening, then scoop out the flesh. Use a paring knife to carve jagged teeth along the mouth edge, and attach fruit slices and blueberries as eyes with toothpicks.
- → What fruits work best for filling the shark’s mouth?
Use a mix of diced watermelon flesh, green and red grapes, blueberries, strawberries, kiwi slices, orange segments, pineapples, blackberries, cantaloupe, and honeydew balls for vibrant colors and refreshing tastes.
- → Can I prepare the board in advance?
Prepare the fruit mix ahead of time, but carve and assemble the watermelon shark just before serving to keep it fresh and visually appealing.
- → Are there decoration options to enhance the display?
Optional gummy fish or mini marshmallows can mimic bubbles and add a playful element. Fresh mint leaves provide a fresh aroma and enhance visual appeal.
- → Is this board suitable for dietary restrictions?
The fruit board is vegetarian and gluten-free, with no major allergens, making it a safe and healthy option for most diets.