Save The Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter is a delightful and healthy appetizer that brings holiday cheer to any gathering. Vibrantly colorful and artfully arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree, this platter is not only visually stunning but also bursting with fresh, crisp flavors. Perfect for those who want a light and refreshing treat during the festive season, this recipe is easy to assemble and makes a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table.
Save This appetizer balances crisp textures and vibrant colors, making it both festive and nourishing. Arranged carefully on a large platter, the mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs creates a harmonious blend that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
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
Use a sharp knife to ensure clean, even slices of cucumber and bell pepper strips. If available, a small cookie cutter is helpful for cutting the bell pepper star to get a perfect shape as the tree topper. Arrange the veggies gently to keep the presentation neat and attractive.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For added color and variety, consider including thinly sliced radishes or additional multicolored bell peppers. If you prefer a non-vegan option, sprinkle the platter with feta cheese or fresh mozzarella pearls. Experiment with different fresh herbs for garnishing to customize flavor and appearance.
Serviervorschläge
This platter pairs beautifully with a variety of dips like tzatziki, guacamole, or vegan ranch dressing. Serve it as a festive appetizer at holiday parties or as a vibrant snack that encourages healthy eating. The colorful vegetable “tree” makes a perfect centerpiece to spark conversation and joy.
Save Enjoy creating this festive appetizer that brings together simplicity, beauty, and healthfulness. Whether for a holiday celebration or a fun gathering, the Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter is sure to impress and please everyone at the table.
Cooking Guide
- → How do I arrange the vegetables to form the tree?
Slice cucumbers into overlapping rows to create a broad base narrowing toward the top, then decorate with halved tomatoes and broccoli as ornaments. Use bell pepper strips and carrot sticks for extra detail.
- → Can I customize the decorations on the platter?
Yes, you can add thinly sliced radishes or multicolored bell peppers for more color and texture.
- → What dips pair well with this vegetable platter?
Serve with hummus, ranch, tzatziki, guacamole, or vegan ranch dips to complement the fresh veggies.
- → Is this suitable for special diets?
This platter is vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and naturally free of common allergens, making it ideal for varied dietary needs.
- → How do I make the star shape for the tree topper?
Use a small cookie cutter to cut a star from the yellow bell pepper, or carefully carve it by hand using a sharp knife.