Watermelon Basket Refreshing Summer Delight (Printable)
A carved watermelon filled with fresh seasonal fruits and citrus-honey dressing
# What You'll Need:
→ 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
# Directions:
01 - Slice 1/4 off the length of the watermelon to create a flat, stable base for 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 - Use a melon baller or sharp knife to scoop watermelon balls or cut into bite-sized cubes, reserving in a large bowl.
04 - Pat the inside of the carved watermelon basket dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture.
05 - Mix watermelon balls, grapes, cantaloupe, pineapple, strawberries, and kiwis in a large mixing bowl.
06 - Whisk together lime juice, honey, and chopped mint in a small bowl until well combined.
07 - Drizzle the citrus-honey dressing over the mixed fruit and toss gently to coat evenly.
08 - Transfer the dressed fruit salad into the carved watermelon basket. Refrigerate until ready to serve and garnish with additional mint if desired.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- Zero oven required during the hottest months of the year
- The presentation makes everyone feel like theyre at a fancy party
- Endlessly customizable based on whatever fruit looks best at the market
02 -
- Dress the fruit right before serving or it will start breaking down within an hour
- A serrated knife will give you much cleaner cuts through the watermelon rind than a straight blade
03 -
- Chill your watermelon in the fridge overnight before carving, it holds shape better
- Use a vegetable peeler on the kiwis instead of a knife for cleaner results