Watermelon Basket Refreshing Summer (Print version)

A carved watermelon filled with fresh seasonal fruits, perfect for summer parties and outdoor gatherings.

# What goes in:

→ Fresh Fruits

01 - 1 large seedless watermelon
02 - 2 cups seedless grapes, green or red
03 - 2 cups cantaloupe, balled or diced
04 - 2 cups pineapple, diced
05 - 1 cup strawberries, hulled and halved
06 - 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced

→ Citrus-Honey Dressing

07 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
08 - 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
09 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves

# Cooking steps:

01 - Slice 1/4 inch off the length of the watermelon to create a flat, stable base for steady serving.
02 - Mark a handle and basket outline on the watermelon. Carefully cut out the handle and remove the top pieces to expose the flesh.
03 - Scoop out watermelon balls using a melon baller, or cut into bite-sized 1-inch cubes, reserving in a large bowl.
04 - Pat the inside of the carved watermelon basket thoroughly dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture.
05 - Add watermelon pieces, grapes, cantaloupe, pineapple, strawberries, and kiwis to the mixing bowl.
06 - Whisk together lime juice, honey or maple syrup, and fresh mint in a small bowl until fully combined.
07 - Drizzle the citrus-honey dressing over the fruit mixture and toss gently to coat evenly without mashing delicate fruits.
08 - Carefully transfer the mixed fruit salad into the carved watermelon basket. Refrigerate until ready to serve and garnish with additional mint sprigs if desired.

# Tips from flavorandfeast:

01 -
  • Its that centerpiece that makes people think you spent hours when really most of the work is just chopping fruit
  • The watermelon bowl keeps everything chilled and juicy longer than a regular serving dish
  • You can absolutely customize the fruit based on whats on sale or what looks best at the market
02 -
  • The watermelon basket will release juice as it sits so plan to serve this within 2 hours of assembling
  • If your watermelon is not perfectly level wedge a folded towel underneath it on the serving table
  • The citrus dressing is what prevents fruit from oxidizing so do not skip this step
03 -
  • A serrated knife works better than a straight blade for cutting through the thick watermelon rind
  • Save the watermelon scraps for smoothies or freeze them for agua fresca later
  • If the basket feels unstable cut a wider slice off the bottom rather than trying to prop it up

Return