In This Article Show
When I plan a party, a colorful fruit tray always seems to steal the show. Fruit trays are simple to throw together and give everyone, kids or adults, a healthy bite to graze on.
A well-arranged fruit tray can make any gathering feel special, whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive celebration. With a little creativity, I can whip up trays that taste great and look even better.
1. Cantaloupe slices arranged in overlapping half-moons
I cut cantaloupe into thin half-moon slices and layer them so each piece overlaps the next. It just looks so tidy and bright—honestly, it’s kind of satisfying to arrange.
2. Honeydew melon wedges with rind for easy handling
I slice honeydew into wedges and leave the rind on, so people can grab a piece without getting sticky. It keeps things neat and gives off that fresh, just-cut vibe.
3. Watermelon cut into triangles for vibrant color
I slice watermelon into triangles for a pop of color. The red and green really wake up a tray, and triangles are easy to grab and snack on.
4. Strawberries hulled and left whole or halved
I hull strawberries and leave them whole if they’re small. If they’re bigger, I just cut them in half—makes it easier for everyone to grab and munch.
5. Blackberries scattered for texture and contrast
I toss blackberries onto fruit trays for that deep color contrast. Their dark purple really pops next to lighter fruit, and they add a little tartness and unique texture that I love.
6. Raspberries placed in small clusters
I group raspberries into small clusters so they’re easy to pick up. It keeps the tray neater, and honestly, a few little clusters just look more inviting.
7. Grapes left on the vine for visual appeal
I leave grapes on the vine in small clusters. It just looks so fresh and makes it easy for guests to grab a few. Plus, the color and texture add a little extra something.
8. Oranges sliced into half-moon segments
I slice oranges into half-moon segments. It’s an easy shape to pick up, and they look so cheerful and neat. I just halve the orange and then slice it up thin.
9. Pineapple cut into half-moons and quarter-moons
I cut fresh pineapple into half-moons and quarter-moons, then tuck them next to berries or melons. The shape is easy to pick up, and that bright yellow just wakes everything up.
10. Kiwi slices with skin removed
I peel kiwis with a paring knife or peeler, then slice them into rounds. They’re easy to eat and add a fun green pop to the tray.
11. Blueberries gently smushed to release aroma
I gently press a few blueberries on my tray to bring out their sweet scent. The aroma makes the whole tray feel a little extra special.
12. Mango cubes for bright tropical flavor
I always add mango cubes for that pop of color and sweetness. The yellow really stands out, and I cut them into bite-sized chunks so people can just grab and go.
13. Apple slices tossed in lemon juice to prevent browning
I slice up fresh apples and toss them in lemon juice to keep them from turning brown. I like how the apple slices stay crisp and look fresh for hours.
14. Mixed berries arranged in color gradients
I set out strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries in rows by color. It’s simple, but the gradient effect is always a crowd-pleaser.
15. Edible flowers as garnish for elegance
I love tossing edible flowers onto fruit trays—they just pop with color and instantly make everything feel a bit fancier. Pansies, violets, and roses? Those are my go-to picks, and they’re safe for snacking, too.
