How to Make a Fruit Platter

Saturday Morning Fruit Platter

Fruit platters are a lovely addition to a breakfast, brunch or mid-afternoon party. They are refreshing and less perishable than mayonnaise-based salads, so they can be safely left out for guests to enjoy throughout the event. For the best results, consider using a tray and fruit with contrasting colors to catch the eye of party guests.

Things You'll Need

• 6 kiwis
• 1 lb. cherries
• 1 cantaloupe
• Large serving dish
• Medium bowl
• Small bowl
• Produce cleaning detergent
• Paring knife
• Large kitchen knife
• Cutting board
• Sink or trash bag
• Clinging plastic wrap
• Service wear

Instructions

1. Place a pound of cherries into the medium bowl. Fill the bowl with water and the required amount of produce cleaning detergent. Leave the cherries to soak for at least 15 minutes to remove any dirt and residues.

2. Wash six kiwis under running water while gently rubbing to remove any residues and dirt. Place the kiwi on a cutting board and carefully slice off the skin. If the kiwi is ripe, the skin should be easy to remove with little effort required. Rinse the peeled kiwis, the pairing knife, and the cutting board to remove any residual hair. Using the pairing knife to slice each kiwi into five slices. Place the sliced kiwi in a covered bowl and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

3. Rinse the cantaloupe to remove all dirt and residues. Using the large kitchen knife, cut the cantaloupe in half. Scoop the inside seeds into the sink or a trash bag, and rinse the inside of the fruit. Cut the halves into half again. Repeat step eleven twice more. Using the paring knife, carefully remove the skin from the cantaloupe pieces. Rinse the finished cantaloupe pieces to remove any residual dirt and peelings.

4. Wash the serving platter and try with a hand towel to remove any residual water.

5. Fan out the cantaloupe pieces around the serving platter to create a circular design. Remove the cherries from their soak, and pat them dry with a towel. Sprinkle the cherries on top of the cantaloupe. Remove the kiwi slices from the refrigerator and distribute on top of the salad. Cover the platter with plastic wrap, pressing as closely as possible to the fruit to help retain the overall shape.

6. When ready to serve, remove the plastic wrap, and place the service wear on both sides of the tray.

Tips & Warnings

• For the best presentation and flavor, consider using organic fruit instead of conventionally grown.

• Use extreme caution when working with kitchen knives. Always slice downward and away from yourself.