Ingredients
Method
Set up the tray
- Choose a large rectangular serving tray or cutting board and place it where you’ll assemble the flag quickly. Keep the area cool so the fruit stays firm while you arrange the rows.
- In the upper left corner, arrange a dense rectangle of blueberries to form the canton (star field). Press the berries in a tight layer so the pattern looks even from an overhead view.
Build the flag stripes
- Starting from the top right of the tray and working left from the blueberry section, lay rows of halved strawberries cut-side down to form the red stripes. Keep the rows straight and close together for clean, tight spacing.
- Brush banana slices with lemon juice to prevent browning, then arrange them in rows between the strawberry stripes to create the white stripes. Coat lightly but evenly so the banana color stays bright.
- Continue alternating strawberry and banana rows across the full length of the tray. Adjust any gaps immediately so the stripes stay uniform end to end.
Serve or chill briefly
- Serve immediately for the freshest look and best texture. For a planned serving time, refrigerate uncovered for up to 1 hour before serving.
Notes
Pro tip: assemble right before guests arrive and keep bananas coated with lemon juice so the white stripes don’t dull. Store covered? refrigerate uncovered up to 1 hour only, since the fruit will soften as it sits. Freezing is not recommended for this display. For a lighter swap, use sliced pineapple in place of part of the banana to reduce overall richness while keeping the white-striped look.