Christmas Sleigh Veggie Rails

A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.

I love serving this at Christmas because it adds a vibrant touch to the table and is always a crowd favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 medium carrots: peeled and cut into 4-inch sticks
• 1 red bell pepper: cut into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper: cut into strips
• 1 small zucchini: cut into 4-inch sticks
• 1 small parsnip: peeled and cut into 4-inch sticks
• 2 tbsp olive oil:
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar:
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme:
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary:
• 1/2 tsp sea salt:
• 1/4 tsp black pepper:
• 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese: optional
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley:

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.

Step 3:

Add the carrot, bell pepper, zucchini, and parsnip sticks to the bowl. Toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly.

Step 4:

Arrange the vegetable sticks on the prepared baking sheet in parallel pairs to resemble sleigh rails, alternating colors for a festive look.

Step 5:

Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway, until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.

Step 6:

Transfer the roasted veggie rails to a serving platter. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and fresh parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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My family enjoys gathering around this dish as we share stories and celebrate the season together.

Required Tools

Chef's knife, cutting board, baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowl, tongs or spatula

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (feta cheese). Omit or substitute for a dairy-free alternative if necessary.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 115, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 12 g, Protein: 2 g per serving

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This festive appetizer brings both flavor and charm to your holiday table.

Recipe Q&A

→ What vegetables are used in the sleigh rails?

Carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and parsnips are cut into sticks and used for their vibrant colors and roasting qualities.

→ How are the vegetables flavored before roasting?

They are tossed in a marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper for balanced seasoning and aroma.

→ Can the feta garnish be omitted or substituted?

Yes, feta is optional and can be omitted or replaced with a plant-based alternative for vegan preferences.

→ What is the ideal oven temperature and roasting time?

Roast the vegetables at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once halfway through for even cooking and caramelization.

→ What are some suggested pairings for this dish?

Try pairing these vegetable rails with yogurt-herb dips, hummus, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir wine.

→ Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, this preparation is gluten-free and vegetarian, making it suitable for those dietary needs.