Watermelon Jack O Lantern Fruit Salad (Printable Version)

Carved watermelon Jack O Lantern filled with colorful fresh melon, berries, and tropical fruits.

# What You'll Need:

→ Watermelon Bowl

01 - 1 large seedless watermelon

→ Fruit Salad

02 - 2 cups cantaloupe, balled or cubed
03 - 2 cups honeydew melon, balled or cubed
04 - 2 cups pineapple, cubed
05 - 1½ cups strawberries, hulled and halved
06 - 1 cup blueberries
07 - 1 cup seedless grapes, halved
08 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
09 - 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Cut a thin slice from the bottom of the watermelon to create a stable, level base for serving.
02 - On the opposite side, mark and carve a Jack O Lantern face design using a small paring knife or pumpkin carving tools. Remove the cut-out pieces completely.
03 - Slice off the top quarter of the watermelon and set aside to use as a lid later.
04 - Using a melon baller or large spoon, scoop out all watermelon flesh, reserving it for the salad. Place the hollowed shell in the refrigerator to chill.
05 - Remove any seeds from the scooped watermelon flesh and cut into bite-sized pieces or balls.
06 - In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew, pineapple, strawberries, blueberries, and grapes.
07 - Drizzle the fruit mixture with fresh lime juice and honey or agave syrup if using. Gently toss to coat evenly without mashing delicate fruits.
08 - Fill the chilled watermelon Jack O Lantern shell with the fruit salad mixture. Replace the lid if transporting, then serve immediately for optimal freshness.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Its edible party decor that serves double duty as a stunning centerpiece and actual food
  • The lime juice keeps fruits bright and fresh for hours, so you can prep ahead without worry
02 -
  • A watermelon shell will sweat and condense water at the bottom, so serve it on a platter or tray to catch any drips
  • The carved face dries out and looks less vibrant after a few hours, so carve no more than 4 hours before serving
03 -
  • Roll the watermelon around on the counter before cutting to loosen the flesh from the rind and make scooping easier
  • Use a melon baller instead of cutting cubes for an elevated look that feels more fancy

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