Pin It Celebrate the holiday season with a fresh and colorful Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter. This vibrant appetizer is beautifully arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree, bringing festive cheer to your gatherings while offering a healthy, refreshing bite. With crunchy cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, and bright bell pepper decorations, this platter is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Pin It This appetizer not only adds color and nutrition to your spread but also encourages guests to enjoy wholesome vegetables during the festivities. The creative tree shape invites fun and conversation, making it a memorable dish for both kids and adults alike.
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
Take care to slice the cucumber rounds evenly to create a neat and stable tree shape. Using a small cookie cutter for the bell pepper star can help achieve a perfect topper. Arrange the vegetables with balance and color in mind to maximize the festive look.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra color, add thinly sliced radishes or multicolored bell peppers. You can also experiment with different dips, such as tzatziki, guacamole, or vegan ranch, to tailor it to your taste. For a non-vegan option, sprinkle feta or mozzarella pearls over the arrangement.
Serviervorschläge
This platter is perfect as a holiday appetizer or a bright addition to any party table. Serve with hummus or ranch dip on the side for a tasty complement. It pairs well with light wines or festive non-alcoholic drinks to complete the celebration.
Pin It Enjoy preparing this delightful and healthy Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter as a fun way to add greenery and freshness to your holiday celebrations. Whether for family gatherings or festive parties, this easy appetizer is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to all your guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the tree shape using cucumbers?
Arrange thinly sliced cucumber rounds in overlapping rows on a large platter, starting wide at the base and tapering towards the top to form a triangle resembling a tree.
- → What vegetables work best as ornaments on this platter?
Halved cherry tomatoes and small broccoli florets provide vivid color and texture, mimicking tree ornaments naturally.
- → How can I make the star topper for the tree?
Use a small cookie cutter or carefully cut a large star shape from a yellow bell pepper slice to create a festive tree topper.
- → Are there options to enhance the presentation?
Adding thin radish slices or multicolored bell pepper strips can increase color contrast and visual appeal.
- → What are some suggested accompaniments for this platter?
Serve with dips like hummus, ranch, tzatziki, or guacamole to complement the fresh vegetable flavors.