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 was a hit at our last family picnic, sparking fun and excitement among all the kids and adults alike.
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 snack board created a memorable moment as everyone gathered around, smiling and sharing stories of creative food art and summer fun.
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
Save to Pinterest This snack board is sure to impress your guests and provide a delicious, fun, and healthy treat for any occasion.
Questions & Answers
- → What tools are needed for carving the watermelon shark?
A sharp large knife, a paring knife, a melon baller, and toothpicks are essential for shaping and assembling the watermelon shark.
- → How can I make this snack board suitable for dairy-free diets?
Omit the cheese cubes or replace them with plant-based alternatives to accommodate dairy-free preferences.
- → Can I prepare the watermelon shark in advance?
Yes, carve and assemble the board up to two hours before serving; keep it covered and chilled for freshness.
- → What fruits complement the watermelon shark display?
Fruits like strawberries, blueberries, green grapes, pineapple chunks, kiwi slices, and orange segments add vibrant colors and flavors.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the crunchy snacks?
Yes, substitute regular pretzel sticks with gluten-free versions to meet gluten sensitivity requirements.
- → How do you create the shark’s eyes on the watermelon carving?
Stack small marshmallow or banana slices with black grapes or blueberries on toothpicks to form realistic shark eyes.