Save A whimsical and refreshing snack board featuring a carved watermelon shark surrounded by an assortment of fresh fruits and crunchy snacks — perfect for summer gatherings and kids parties.
This was a big hit at our last family barbecue, and everyone loved the creative shark design paired with fresh fruits and crunchy snacks.
Ingredients
- Main Display: 1 large watermelon (for carving and fruit balls)
- Fruits: 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved, 1 cup blueberries, 1 cup green grapes, halved, 1 cup pineapple chunks, 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced, 1 orange, segmented
- Crunchy Snacks: 1 cup pretzel sticks, 1 cup cheese cubes (optional, use dairy-free if needed)
- Decorative & Garnish: 2 black grapes or blueberries (for shark eyes), 2 slices mini marshmallow or banana (for shark eyes whites), Fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Using a sharp knife, slice a thin piece off the base of the watermelon so it sits flat.
- Step 2:
- Cut a wedge from one end to form the open mouth of the shark. Use a melon baller to scoop out most of the flesh, reserving the balls for the board.
- Step 3:
- Carve triangular teeth along the mouth edge using a paring knife.
- Step 4:
- Attach the eyes above the mouth using toothpicks: stack a mini marshmallow or banana slice with a black grape or blueberry for each eye.
- Step 5:
- Arrange reserved watermelon balls spilling from the sharks mouth onto a large platter.
- Step 6:
- Surround the shark with the strawberries, blueberries, grapes, pineapple, kiwi, and orange segments in colorful waves.
- Step 7:
- Fill in spaces with pretzel sticks, cheese cubes, and mint leaves for garnish.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, or cover and chill for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save This snack board always sparks joy and brings the family together, especially when carving the watermelon shark is a shared activity.
Preparation Tips
Use a sharp paring knife for carving teeth and a melon baller for neat fruit balls to ensure a visually appealing board.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to add other fruits like mango, raspberries, or apple slices to enhance flavor and color variety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a variety of dips such as honey yogurt or chocolate sauce for extra fun and flavor.
Save This snack board is sure to impress your guests with its creativity and refreshing taste.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I carve the watermelon shark safely?
Use a sharp paring knife and a melon baller to carve the mouth and scoop out the flesh carefully. Work slowly to avoid slipping.
- → Can I substitute any fruits on the board?
Yes, feel free to add mango, raspberries, apple slices, or any seasonal fruits to suit your taste and availability.
- → What can I use instead of cheese for a dairy-free option?
Plant-based cheese alternatives work well, or you can simply omit cheese cubes for a completely dairy-free spread.
- → How should I store the platter if not serving immediately?
Cover the platter and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to keep fruits fresh and vibrant before serving.
- → What tools are recommended for assembling this snack board?
A large sharp knife, paring knife, melon baller, toothpicks, and a large serving platter are essential for preparing and presenting this display.