Watermelon Basket Refreshing Summer Delight (Print View)

Watermelon carved as an edible bowl filled with melon balls, berries, pineapple and kiwi, tossed in lime-mint.

# What You'll Need:

→ Fruit

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 (Optional)

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

# How To Make It:

01 - Slice a quarter off the length of the watermelon with a sharp knife to create a flat base so it sits securely.
02 - Mark a handle and basket outline on the top of the watermelon. Carefully cut out the handle and remove top sections to expose the flesh.
03 - Use a melon baller or spoon to scoop out watermelon balls or cut the flesh into bite-sized cubes. Set aside the fruit in a large mixing bowl.
04 - Pat the inside of the watermelon basket dry with paper towels.
05 - Combine watermelon balls, grapes, cantaloupe, pineapple, strawberries, and kiwis in a large mixing bowl.
06 - In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey or maple syrup, and chopped mint. Drizzle over the fruit and toss gently to combine.
07 - Transfer the mixed fruit back into the carved watermelon basket. Chill in the refrigerator until serving and garnish with extra mint if desired.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The watermelon basket turns your fruit salad into a conversation starter at any gathering—trust me, everyone leans in for a closer look.
  • The sweet medley of fruit with a hint of citrus and mint always tastes like sunshine, no matter the weather.
02 -
  • If you skip drying the inside of the basket, you’ll end up with sad, watery fruit salad at the bottom.
  • Letting it chill before serving melds the flavors and helps the basket hold its shape longer.
03 -
  • If your watermelon is under-ripe, a tablespoon of orange juice in the dressing adds welcome sweetness and aroma.
  • Carve the watermelon basket over a large baking sheet to catch rogue juices—it saves clean-up time and your countertops.

Go Back