Save to Pinterest 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 snack board has become a hit with my family and friends, especially the kids who love the shark design and vibrant fruit waves.
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 to Pinterest This recipe has created many joyful family moments, especially watching kids marvel at the shark design and dig into the colorful, healthy snacks.
Required Tools
Large sharp knife, Paring knife, Melon baller, Toothpicks, Large serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese). Contains gluten (pretzel sticks), substitute gluten-free pretzels if needed. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 170, Total Fat: 3 g, Carbohydrates: 37 g, Protein: 4 g (per serving)
Save to Pinterest Create your own waves of fruit with varying colors for a visually stunning presentation that tastes as good as it looks.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I carve the watermelon shark?
Slice a thin base for stability, cut a wedge to create the open mouth, scoop out flesh with a melon baller, and carve triangular teeth along the mouth edges with a paring knife.
- → What fruits work best for the surrounding waves?
Use a variety like strawberries, blueberries, green grapes, pineapple chunks, kiwi slices, and orange segments for vibrant colors and flavors.
- → Can I make this snack board dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the cheese cubes or substitute with a plant-based alternative to keep it dairy-free.
- → How do I secure the shark's eyes?
Stack a mini marshmallow or banana slice with a black grape or blueberry on top, then attach using toothpicks above the mouth.
- → What are some tips for making this snack board ahead of time?
Prepare and carve the watermelon in advance, cover the board, and chill for up to 2 hours before serving to keep it fresh.