Watermelon Basket Fresh Fruit Salad

Ingredients

  • 1 large watermelon
  • ½ ripe honeydew melon
  • ½ ripe cantaloupe
  • 2 pears, cut into small chunks
  • 1 bunch red grapes, stems removed
  • 1 basket strawberries, washed and halved or quartered
  • Juice of 3 oranges
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • Optional garnishes: lemon/lime slices, extra grapes

A juicy, colorful fruit salad is always a welcome treat—but serving it in a carved watermelon basket? That’s taking summer entertaining to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, picnic, or baby shower, this Watermelon Basket Fresh Fruit Salad is a beautiful and refreshing way to serve nature’s candy.

Cooking Steps

  • 1
    Make melon balls from the honeydew and cantaloupe using a melon baller or small ice cream scoop.
  • 2
    In a bowl, toss the honeydew and pears with lime juice to prevent browning.
  • 3
    Cut and carve the watermelon (instructions below), removing the flesh and cutting it into bite-sized chunks. Remove seeds as needed.
  • 4
    Combine the watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, pears, grapes, strawberries, and orange juice in a large bowl. Stir gently.
  • 5
    Transfer the mixed fruit back into the hollowed watermelon basket.
  • 6
    Garnish with citrus slices or extra grapes for a beautiful presentation. Chill until ready to serve.

How to Carve the Watermelon Basket:

  • 1
    Choose a stable base by placing the watermelon on a flat surface and deciding which side it naturally sits on.
  • 2
    Place a strip of 1-inch masking tape around the center lengthwise.
  • 3
    Use two more strips across the top, perpendicular to the first—this marks your handle.
  • 4
    Cut along the taped edge above the center to create the opening of your basket. Cut carefully around the handle tape and lift out the top sections.
  • 5
    For a fancier look, you can cut in a zigzag pattern instead of straight.
  • 6
    Scoop out the fruit with a large spoon, leaving a sturdy shell and intact handle.
  • 7
    Hollow the base about ⅓ deep, and carefully scoop around the handle to make it lighter without breaking it.

Tips & Variations:

  • Don’t want to carve a watermelon? Serve in a large glass bowl for a no-fuss option.

  • Use pre-cut fruit or store-bought melon balls to save time.

  • Make the basket a day ahead and store fruit separately. Combine just before serving for peak freshness.

  • Add fresh mint leaves for an herbal twist.

Why It Works:

  • Eye-catching centerpiece

  • Serves 8 to 10 people

  • Naturally sweet and healthy

  • Kid- and guest-friendly

  • Great make-ahead summer dish

This Watermelon Basket Fruit Salad is more than just delicious—it’s artful, practical, and bound to be the most talked-about dish on the table.

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