📝 About This Recipe
Transform a simple summertime staple into a whimsical feast for the eyes with these vibrant Watermelon Hearts. This playful snack combines the natural, hydrating sweetness of ripe melon with a zesty citrus glaze and a touch of garden-fresh mint. Perfect for Valentine's Day, birthday parties, or a sunny afternoon treat, these nutrient-packed shapes prove that healthy eating can be a creative adventure for kids and adults alike.
🥗 Ingredients
The Fruit Base
- 1 large Seedless Watermelon (chilled, approximately 10-12 lbs)
- 1 cup Fresh Blueberries (rinsed and patted dry)
- 1/2 cup Fresh Raspberries (for garnish)
Honey-Lime Glaze
- 3 tablespoons Honey (clover or wildflower variety)
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon Lime Zest (finely grated)
- 1 pinch Sea Salt (to balance the sweetness)
Decorative Accents
- 10-12 pieces Fresh Mint Leaves (small leaves or chiffonade)
- 1/4 cup Feta Cheese (crumbled (optional for a sweet-savory twist))
- 2 tablespoons Unsweetened Shredded Coconut (to look like 'snow' or lace)
- 12 pieces Wooden Skewers (for serving as 'fruit lollipops')
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Place the chilled watermelon on a stable cutting board. Using a sharp chef's knife, slice off both ends of the watermelon to create flat surfaces.
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2
Stand the watermelon upright on one of the flat ends. Carefully slice the rind off in downward strokes, following the curve of the fruit until only the red flesh remains.
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3
Lay the peeled watermelon on its side and cut it into uniform rounds (discs) approximately 1 inch thick.
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4
Select heart-shaped cookie cutters of various sizes (small, medium, and large) to create visual variety.
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5
Press the cookie cutters firmly into the watermelon discs. Gently push the heart shapes out and set them aside on a parchment-lined tray.
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6
Take the remaining watermelon scraps and dice them into small cubes to be used in a fruit salad or smoothie later, ensuring zero waste.
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7
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, lime zest, and a tiny pinch of sea salt until the glaze is smooth and translucent.
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8
Arrange the watermelon hearts on a large serving platter, overlapping some for a tiered effect.
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9
Using a pastry brush or a small spoon, lightly drizzle the honey-lime glaze over each watermelon heart to give them a brilliant shine.
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10
Scatter the fresh blueberries and raspberries around the hearts, tucking some into the crevices for a pops of contrasting color.
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11
If using skewers, gently insert a wooden stick into the bottom of the larger hearts to create 'Watermelon Wands' for the kids.
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12
Garnish the platter with fresh mint leaves and a light dusting of shredded coconut or crumbled feta cheese for added texture.
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13
Serve immediately while the fruit is crisp and cold for the most refreshing experience.
💡 Chef's Tips
Choose a seedless watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow 'field spot'—this indicates it is ripe and sweet. If the honey is too thick to whisk, microwave it for 5-10 seconds to loosen the consistency before adding the lime juice. To prevent the hearts from sliding on the platter, pat the bottom of the watermelon shapes dry with a paper towel before plating. For an extra festive touch, use a small melon baller to scoop out the center of a large heart and replace it with a blueberry or a smaller watermelon heart of a different color. Avoid dressing the fruit too far in advance, as the salt and acid in the glaze will cause the watermelon to release its juices and lose its crispness.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a side of Greek yogurt dip mixed with a little vanilla and cinnamon. Serve alongside a glass of sparkling apple cider or homemade lemonade. Add a handful of granola on the side for a crunchy texture contrast. These hearts make a beautiful topper for a simple green spinach and strawberry salad. For a summer party, serve these on a bed of crushed ice to keep them ultra-chilled.