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On hot days when I am craving something light and pretty, this watermelon pizza is my go-to. It is playful enough for parties but so easy you can serve it up as a quick family snack or after-dinner treat. The sweet, juicy watermelon base pairs perfectly with creamy yogurt and a rainbow of fresh fruit.
I first put this together for a backyard BBQ, and everyone from toddlers to grandparents grabbed seconds. It is now my no-fuss solution for beating the summer heat.
Ingredients
- Seedless watermelon: Choose a ripe one with a deep hollow sound and uniform color. This becomes the base so the juicier and sweeter the better.
- Greek yogurt plain or vanilla: Extra creamy and rich, and its tang balances the sweetness. Choose a thick, quality yogurt for best spreadability.
- Honey or maple syrup: Gentle sweetness stirred into the yogurt. Use a fragrant honey or pure maple syrup if sweetening.
- Strawberries: Fresh and sliced. Thin slices look beautiful and add bright flavor. Look for berries that are fragrant and shiny.
- Blueberries: Packed with color and pop in every bite. Opt for plump, firm berries.
- Kiwi: Peeled and sliced. Thin rounds add tropical tang and color. Check for slight give when you squeeze.
- Raspberries: Sweet and tart with fragile texture. Choose dry, unbruised berries.
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: For extra texture and a tropical touch. Optional but adds crunch and flavor. Use fine coconut for best stick.
- Fresh mint: Brings a refreshing herbal finish. Only a little is needed. Use leaves that are green and fragrant.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slice the Watermelon:
- Place the watermelon on its side and cut a one-inch thick round slab from the widest part. Use a kitchen towel to blot the cut surface dry so the yogurt will stick.
- Prepare the Yogurt Spread:
- Mix the Greek yogurt in a small bowl with honey or maple syrup, if using. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Top the Watermelon:
- Transfer the watermelon round to a large cutting board or serving platter. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the yogurt evenly over the top, leaving a little border at the edge for a pretty pizza look.
- Arrange the Fruit:
- Artfully place the strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, and raspberries on top of the yogurt. Layer the colors and shapes for visual appeal.
- Add Garnishes:
- If desired, sprinkle shredded coconut and chopped fresh mint over the fruit. Gently press so the toppings stick.
- Slice and Serve:
- Use a sharp, large knife to cut the topped watermelon into eight even wedges. Serve right away for best texture and flavor. Enjoy cold.
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This recipe has become my summer party trick and the look of surprise on my friends faces never gets old. I am always tempted to sneak some mango on my own slice because it reminds me of my favorite beach vacation.
Storage tips
This watermelon pizza is best enjoyed right after making because the yogurt and fruit start to release juices as it sits. If you need to prepare ahead, slice the watermelon, refrigerate the slab and keep the prepped fruit and yogurt separately. Only assemble just before serving. Leftovers do not store well, so make only as much as you will eat in one sitting.
Ingredient substitutions
You can use coconut or cashew-based yogurt to keep the pizza plant-based. For the fruit, almost anything goes: Mango, peach, pineapple, grapes, or blackberries are delicious alternatives and look beautiful. No honey? Use maple syrup or date syrup for natural sweetness.
Serving suggestions
Serve this as a light dessert after a BBQ or picnic, or make mini rounds for brunch platters. For something fancier, drizzle with melted dark chocolate or top with edible flowers. This also makes a colorful centerpiece on a kid’s snack board and has been a hit at birthday parties.
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Cultural and historical context
Watermelon is enjoyed worldwide as a symbol of summer celebrations. In some Mediterranean countries, fruit and yogurt are classic pairings for breakfast or dessert. By turning a watermelon slice into a “pizza,” you blend playful Western presentation with time-honored traditions of fresh fruit serving.
Common Questions
- → How do I cut the watermelon for this dish?
Slice the watermelon crosswise into a 1-inch-thick round slab, then cut into 8 wedges like a pizza for easy serving.
- → Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut or other plant-based yogurt and opt for maple syrup as a sweetener if needed.
- → What other fruits work well as toppings?
Mango, pineapple, grapes, or your favorite fresh berries can be added or substituted for extra color and flavor.
- → How far in advance can I prepare it?
It's best assembled just before serving to prevent the yogurt and fruit from making the watermelon soggy.
- → Is this suitable for children?
Absolutely! Kids love the fun presentation and sweet, healthy ingredients. Get them involved in arranging toppings.