Save Celebrate the holidays with a vibrant and refreshing Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter, a colorful vegetable arrangement shaped like a Christmas tree. This eye-catching appetizer brings together crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh broccoli florets, accented with a bright yellow bell pepper star and carrot trunk. Ideal for festive gatherings, this easy-to-make dish is as healthy as it is beautiful, pleasing guests of all ages and dietary preferences.
Save This platter is not only visually stunning but also versatile. Arrange the vegetables ahead of time and add your favorite dip for a crowd-pleasing snack. The crisp cucumbers provide a refreshing base, while the tomatoes and broccoli add bursts of flavor and texture. The yellow bell pepper star and carrot sticks add a cheerful holiday touch that elevates this simple dish into a centerpiece.
Ingredients
- 2 large English cucumbers
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (red and/or yellow)
- 1 small yellow bell pepper
- 1 small broccoli crown
- 1 small carrot
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill sprigs
- 1/4 cup black olives, pitted
- 1/4 cup hummus or ranch dip (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- 1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
- 2. Slice cucumbers into thin, even rounds.
- 3. Cut cherry tomatoes in half for easier eating.
- 4. Cut the broccoli crown into small florets.
- 5. Slice the yellow bell pepper into thin strips; cut one large star shape from the center for the tree topper.
- 6. Peel the carrot and cut into sticks; use a few to form the tree trunk.
- 7. On a large platter, arrange cucumber slices in overlapping rows to form the shape of a Christmas tree, starting with a broad base and narrowing towards the top.
- 8. Place halved cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets evenly over the cucumbers as ornaments.
- 9. Use black olives and yellow bell pepper strips for additional decoration.
- 10. Place the bell pepper star at the top of the tree and the carrot sticks at the base as the trunk.
- 11. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill sprigs for a festive touch.
- 12. Serve immediately with hummus or ranch dip on the side if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Be sure to slice the cucumbers evenly to create a smooth and consistent tree shape. Use a small cookie cutter to cut the bell pepper star precisely. Arranging the vegetables in overlapping layers will add depth and make your platter more visually appealing.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra color, add thinly sliced radishes or multicolored bell peppers. To make it non-vegan, sprinkle with feta or mozzarella pearls. You can also switch up the garnish herbs based on your preference, using either fresh parsley or dill.
Serviervorschläge
This platter pairs beautifully with a variety of dips such as hummus, ranch, tzatziki, or guacamole. Serve it on a large, flat platter to showcase the tree shape and let guests pick their favorite vegetables and dips to enjoy.
Save This Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter is a delightful way to add wholesome, fresh flavors to your holiday table. Its vibrant colors and healthy ingredients make it a standout appetizer everyone will appreciate, combining ease of preparation with festive cheer.
Recipe Q&A
- → What vegetables are featured in the platter?
The platter includes English cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, broccoli florets, and carrot sticks for decoration.
- → How is the tree shape formed?
Thin cucumber slices are arranged in overlapping rows to create a broad base narrowing toward the top, resembling a Christmas tree.
- → What garnishes add color and texture?
Halved cherry tomatoes, broccoli florets, black olives, and fresh parsley or dill sprigs provide vibrant color and varied textures.
- → Can this platter accommodate dietary preferences?
Yes, it is vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and naturally free of common allergens if dips are chosen accordingly.
- → What dips pair well with this arrangement?
Options like hummus, ranch, tzatziki, guacamole or vegan ranch complement the fresh vegetable flavors nicely.
- → How long does preparation take?
Preparation is quick, taking about 20 minutes with no cooking required.