Tropical Pineapple Fruit Boat

A vibrant and refreshing fruit salad served in a pineapple boat, perfect for summer gatherings or as a show-stopping brunch centerpiece.

I love serving this fruit boat at summer parties because it always impresses guests and is super healthy.

Ingredients

• Fruit: 1 ripe pineapple, 1 kiwi peeled and sliced, 1 mango peeled and diced, 1/2 cup (75 g) strawberries hulled and quartered, 1/2 cup (75 g) seedless grapes halved, 1/2 cup (75 g) blueberries
• Dressing & Garnish: Juice of 1/2 lime, 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup, Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1:

Slice the pineapple in half lengthwise keeping the leaves attached for presentation.

Step 2:

Using a paring knife cut around the edge of one pineapple half leaving about 1/2 inch (1 cm) border.

Step 3:

Carefully cut the flesh into cubes without piercing the skin then scoop out the cubes with a spoon Set aside the cubes in a large bowl.

Step 4:

Discard the core from the pineapple cubes.

Step 5:

Add the kiwi mango strawberries grapes and blueberries to the bowl with the pineapple cubes.

Step 6:

In a small bowl mix the lime juice and honey (or maple syrup) Drizzle over the fruit and toss gently to combine.

Step 7:

Spoon the mixed fruit salad back into the hollowed pineapple half mounding it attractively.

Step 8:

Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.

Pin it

This fruit boat is always a hit with my family especially during warm sunny days shared on the patio.

Preparation Tips

Be sure to cut the pineapple carefully to preserve the shape and avoid breaking the skin.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or with a scoop of coconut sorbet for an extra tropical treat.

Storage Advice

Best enjoyed fresh but fruit salad can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

Pin it

This tropical pineapple fruit boat is a perfect balance of sweet and tart that delights all ages.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I hollow out the pineapple without breaking it?

Cut the pineapple lengthwise with leaves intact, leaving a half-inch border around the edge. Carefully cube the flesh inside without piercing the skin, then scoop it out gently with a spoon.

→ Can I substitute other fruits in this dish?

Yes, fruits like papaya, dragon fruit, or melon can be added or swapped to create your preferred tropical mix.

→ What dressing complements the fruit in this boat?

A simple dressing of fresh lime juice combined with honey or maple syrup highlights the natural sweetness and adds a slight tanginess.

→ Is this suitable for special dietary needs?

The dish is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free, with options to make it vegan by using maple syrup instead of honey.

→ How should I serve this fruit boat for best flavor?

Serve chilled and garnished with fresh mint leaves. For extra texture, toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts can be sprinkled on top.