Patriotic Fruit Salad
This patriotic fruit salad is the easiest, most impressive side dish you'll bring all summer. Star-shaped watermelon cutouts, crisp Granny Smith apple stars, juicy blueberries, and blackberries — fresh, simple, and stunning on any table. Perfect for Fourth of July, backyard cookouts, graduation parties, or any summer gathering. Kids love helping make it and everyone asks for the recipe. Save this one for your summer entertaining board!
Ingredients
- 1 medium watermelon
- 1½ cups blueberries
- 1 cup blackberries
- 1 Granny Smith apple
- 2 lemons juiced
Instructions
- Slice watermelon into 1 to 1½-inch slabs and press a large star cookie cutter through each slab to create stars
- Core and slice the Granny Smith apple into ½-inch pieces and use a smaller star cookie cutter to cut star shapes
- Juice both lemons into a medium bowl, add the apple stars, and toss to coat. Let sit 1–2 minutes then remove with a fork or slotted spoon
- Combine watermelon stars, apple stars, blueberries, and blackberries in a large serving bowl or platter and toss gently
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving
Notes
- Add blueberries and blackberries last if making significantly ahead to prevent color bleeding
- A wide platter shows off the star shapes better than a deep bowl
- Add fresh mint or a drizzle of honey for a finishing touch
- Doubles easily for larger crowds