Fresh Watermelon and Fruit Salad Recipe
This vibrant, refreshing fruit salad is the perfect treat for a warm day or any occasion where you want to add a splash of color and flavor. Thanks to an unexpected surplus of watermelons from my DBF (my truck-driving partner), I had the chance to craft this tasty, easy-to-make salad that’s not only packed with fresh, juicy fruits but also incredibly healthy. Whether you’re planning a summer potluck, a kid-friendly brunch, or just a quick, nutritious snack, this colorful fruit salad will brighten up any table!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Melons
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: Makes a generous bowl, great for serving a crowd.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Watermelon | 1 medium |
| Honeydew melon | 1 medium |
| Cantaloupe | 1 medium |
| Fresh pineapple | 1 small |
| Strawberries | 2 cups |
| Blueberries | 2 cups |
| Raspberries | 2 cups |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Lime juice | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 1/3 cup |
| Sugar | 2/3 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 169.2 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 19.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 42.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.8 g |
| Sugars | 35.4 g |
| Protein | 2.6 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Watermelon: Start by slicing the watermelon lengthwise about 1/3 of the way from the top. This will be the base for your fruit salad, so you may need to slice a small portion off the bottom to ensure the watermelon shell sits flat on your countertop.
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Hollow Out the Watermelon: Use a spoon or melon baller to carefully remove the flesh of the watermelon, creating a hollowed-out “bowl” that will hold your fruit salad.
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Cut the Fruit:
- For the watermelon, cut the flesh into chunks or use a melon baller to make small, round pieces.
- For the honeydew and cantaloupe melons, slice them in half, remove the seeds, and then cut them into cubes or balls.
- Peel the pineapple, remove the core, and chop it into small chunks.
- Hull the strawberries and slice them into quarters.
- Gently rinse the blueberries and raspberries, removing any stems or leaves.
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Assemble the Salad: Place all of the cut fruit into the hollowed-out watermelon bowl. This will create a colorful medley of fruits that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, lime juice, water, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely, creating a tangy, sweet dressing to complement the fresh fruits.
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Toss and Serve: Pour the dressing over the fruit salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring all the fruit is coated with the citrusy-sweet liquid.
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Chill (Optional): While this fruit salad can be served immediately, chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes will enhance the flavors and make it even more refreshing, especially on a hot day.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, serve the salad in bowls or simply scoop it directly from the watermelon bowl. Perfect for a potluck, brunch, or a casual gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: This fruit salad is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring just 20 minutes of prep time and no cooking at all! It’s perfect for beginner cooks or anyone short on time.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, this fruit salad is a guilt-free, light dish that’s low in fat and cholesterol while providing a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved: With its bright colors and naturally sweet fruits, this salad is an instant hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to get your little ones excited about eating fresh fruits!
- Versatile: You can adjust the fruits based on availability and personal preferences. Feel free to add or substitute with other seasonal fruits like peaches, grapes, or apples. It’s a flexible recipe that can be customized to your taste!
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Fresh Watermelon and Fruit Salad is ideal for a wide range of occasions:
- Potlucks & Barbecues: Its vibrant colors and light, refreshing flavor make it the perfect side dish for any summer gathering.
- Brunches: Serve it alongside your favorite breakfast foods or as a sweet finish to a savory brunch spread.
- Family Gatherings: This easy-to-make recipe is a crowd-pleaser, making it great for family get-togethers or picnics.
- Toddler & Kid-Friendly: Packed with naturally sweet fruits and a kid-approved flavor, this salad is a perfect way to encourage your little ones to enjoy fresh produce.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: This fruit salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best served fresh to enjoy the maximum flavor and texture.
- Serving Suggestions: If you want to add some extra flair, try serving the salad with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of chopped mint leaves, or even a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a light side dish for a party, or a sweet treat to enjoy on a warm day, this Fresh Watermelon and Fruit Salad is the answer. Easy to make, bursting with flavor, and so refreshing, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion!
Feel free to adjust the fruits and quantities according to what’s in season or your personal preference. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility and ease of customization. Happy cooking and enjoy!
