Save to Pinterest The Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter is a delightful and colorful appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. This refreshing veggie tree combines vibrant cucumbers and tomatoes, accented with broccoli florets and a cheerful yellow bell pepper star, creating a healthy and inviting centerpiece. Its easy, no-cook preparation makes it an ideal choice for a hassle-free yet impressive party dish.
Save to Pinterest This appetizer makes a wonderful addition to any seasonal party, impressing guests with its creative display while offering fresh flavors. Its versatility means you can adapt it to various tastes and dietary preferences without any fuss.
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
To make slicing easier, use a sharp knife and a vegetable peeler for uniform cucumber rounds. For the star topper, a small cookie cutter can help achieve a crisp, festive shape. Assemble the tree close to serving time to keep vegetables fresh and crisp.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Add extra color and variety by including thinly sliced radishes or multicolored bell peppers. For a non-vegan option, sprinkle with feta or mozzarella pearls to enhance flavor and texture. Dips can be tailored to preferences, including tzatziki, guacamole, or vegan ranch.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this platter as a centerpiece at your holiday table or alongside other appetizers. Offer a selection of dips such as hummus or ranch to complement the fresh vegetables and encourage dipping. It pairs wonderfully with light wine or festive mocktails for a complete party experience.
Save to Pinterest With simple steps and a festive flair, this Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter is sure to be a hit at any holiday celebration. Fresh, healthy, and visually stunning, it’s a wonderful way to bring joy and color to your table.