Star-shaped watermelon takes center stage in this mouthwatering, 5-ingredient Star Spangled fruit salad. Whether you are celebrating a patriotic holiday like the Fourth of July or simply looking for a fun summer side dish, this recipe delivers festive flair with minimal effort.
For even more festive menu ideas, be sure to check out our collection of healthy patriotic recipes perfect for your next holiday gathering. You can also explore more of our sweet and nutritious fruit recipes to keep your table fresh, colorful, and delicious all summer long.
This fruit salad is a nutritional powerhouse that offers high volume and satisfaction for very few calories. By relying on the natural sweetness of whole fruits rather than added sugars or heavy syrups, it serves as a guilt-free, heart-smart dessert or side dish that supports hydration and healthy blood sugar management.
Yes, watermelon is an excellent choice for heart health. It contains lycopene and citrulline, nutrients that support blood vessel health and may help manage blood pressure.
While fruit contains natural sugar (fructose), it comes packaged with water, fiber, and vitamins, which is different from the added refined sugars in desserts. This recipe is considered diabetic-friendly when eaten in appropriate portion sizes.
Look for a watermelon that feels heavy for its size and has a creamy yellow "field spot" on one side. A hollow sound when tapped is also a good sign of ripeness.
It is best to use fresh fruit for this recipe. Frozen fruit releases too much water when thawed, which will make the salad mushy and affect the texture of the star shapes.
Stay cool and hydrated with these refreshing fruit salads and nutrient-packed drinks. Bursting with natural sweetness and vitamins, these recipes make the perfect light breakfast or guilt-free snack.
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Watermelon is more than just a sweet summer treat; it is a functional food for heart health. It is one of the best dietary sources of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to cardiovascular health. Additionally, watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid that may help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, making it a star ingredient for a heart-healthy diet.
Recipe yields 18 servings
On a flat surface, with a sharp knife cut half the watermelon into large slices, about 1/2-inch thick. With a metal star-shaped cookie cutter, cut star shapes out of the watermelon slices.
Cut remaining watermelon into 2-inch cubes.
In a large bowl, combine the watermelon cubes, the blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. Toss gently to combine. Add the watermelon star slices and sprinkle with lemon juice.
This salad is the ideal accompaniment to summer barbecues and picnics.
For Watermelon: If you can't find seedless red watermelon, yellow watermelon or cantaloupe works well, though the "star spangled" color theme will change.
For Berries: Blackberries are a great swap for raspberries if you prefer a firmer texture.
For Lemon Juice: Fresh lime juice offers a zesty alternative that pairs beautifully with watermelon.
For a White Element: To make this truly red, white, and blue, add sliced bananas, jicama stars, or mini mozzarella balls (for a savory twist) to the mix.