How Do I Assemble a Fruit Tray for a Party?
A fruit tray is easy, healthy and can be a beautiful addition to any buffet table. Seasonal fruit is colorful and tasty and also makes a great dessert, especially for those on special diets such as diabetics. Plan on 1/2 to 3/4 cup of fruit per guest, as well as 2 to 3 cups of fruit dip. A fruit tray can be made up to one day ahead, if kept refrigerated and well-covered.Serve as is or with an optional fruit dip.
Instructions
Arranging the Platter
1. Begin by cutting the melon and pineapple into even-sized chunks, about 1 to 1-1/2 inches. Rinse and drain the strawberries, leaving the stems on. Large strawberries can be cut in half. Remove grapes from the stems and rinse them well. Grapes can also be left in small bunches of 2 to 3 grapes. Allow the rinsed fruit to air dry thoroughly or gently pat dry with paper towels.
2. If you are using a fruit dip, fill the 2- to 3-cup bowl with the dip. Fold a small piece of masking tape to create a loop that is sticky on all sides. Place the tape loop in the center of the tray. Place the small bowl on top and fill with the fruit dip.
3. Add the fruit around the dip bowl. Start with one type of grapes and arrange in a wedge shape, with the smaller end in the middle. Place the cantaloupe next, followed by the strawberries, the other grapes, pineapple and finish with the honeydew melon. This will separate the two types of grapes and melons to make the tray more attractive and interesting.
4. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving. Transport by setting the tray on a bowl of ice to keep cool.
Simple Fruit Dip
5. Soften the cream cheese and whip in the powdered sugar until smooth.
6. Add the granulated sugar to the whipping cream and whip until soft peaks form.
7. Combine the cream cheese mixture, the whipped cream mixture, the lemon juice and zest together. Slowly add pineapple juice until dip is a soft,creamy texture. Keep refrigerated until serving.
Tags: Assemble Fruit, Assemble Fruit Tray, cream cheese, fruit fruit, Fruit Tray