Save A festive and colorful platter of fresh vegetables arranged as ornament dippers, perfect for holiday gatherings and healthy snacking.
This colorful veggie platter has become a holiday tradition in my family, bringing fun and nutrition to our celebrations.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large red bell pepper, 1 large yellow bell pepper, 1 large cucumber, 2 large carrots, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 small head broccoli, 1 small head cauliflower, 1 cup sugar snap peas, 8 thin celery stalks
- Garnishes & Ornament Hooks: 8 pretzel sticks or thin breadsticks, 3 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped, 2 tbsp sesame seeds, 1 tbsp poppy seeds, 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds
- Dips: 1 cup hummus, 1 cup ranch dressing (or Greek yogurt dip)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly.
- Step 2:
- Slice bell peppers into thick rounds remove seeds. Cut cucumber into thick slices. Peel carrots and cut into 1/2-inch rounds.
- Step 3:
- Use a small round cookie cutter (about 2 inches) to cut ornament shapes from the bell peppers cucumber and carrot rounds.
- Step 4:
- Leave cherry tomatoes whole. Break broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets.
- Step 5:
- Thread each ornament-shaped vegetable onto a pretzel stick or breadstick to act as the hanger. For smaller veggies like tomatoes or snap peas skewer them onto the stick.
- Step 6:
- Arrange vegetables on a large platter in clusters resembling a tray of colorful ornaments.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle parsley sesame seeds poppy seeds and pomegranate seeds over the ornaments for extra color and texture.
- Step 8:
- Serve with hummus and ranch (or yogurt) dip on the side.
Save We love gathering around this platter as a family and sharing stories while enjoying the festive snacks.
Notes
Substitute bell peppers or cucumbers with zucchini or radishes for variety. Use gluten-free breadsticks for a fully gluten-free option. Try beet hummus or pesto dip for additional color and flavor. For extra festivity add edible gold dust or sprigs of dill.
Required Tools
Sharp knife Cutting board Small round cookie cutter (optional) Large platter Bowls for dip
Allergen Information
Contains gluten pretzel sticks breadsticks substitute with gluten-free options if needed Ranch dressing may contain dairy and egg Hummus contains sesame tahini Double-check dip ingredients and pretzel breadstick labels for allergens.
Save This recipe adds a vibrant and healthy touch to holiday parties that your guests will love.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What vegetables work best for ornament shapes?
Bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots are ideal for cutting into ornament shapes due to their firm texture and vibrant colors.
- → Can I use gluten-free alternatives for the skewers?
Yes, gluten-free breadsticks or pretzel sticks are perfect substitutes to keep this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → How do I keep the vegetables fresh and crisp?
Wash and dry vegetables thoroughly before cutting. Keeping them refrigerated until serving helps maintain crunchiness and freshness.
- → What dips pair well with these vegetable dippers?
Creamy options like hummus and ranch or Greek yogurt dressings complement the fresh, crisp vegetables nicely.
- → Can I prepare this platter ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the vegetables and store covered in the refrigerator. Add garnishes and dips just before serving for best presentation.