Save Celebrate the season with a Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter, a vibrant and healthy appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings. This colorful display of fresh vegetables arranged as a Christmas tree brings joy, freshness, and a touch of creativity to your table without any cooking.
Save This platter is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Combining crunchy cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fresh herbs, it’s a wonderful way to encourage healthy snacking at any celebration.
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
For best results, use a sharp knife to create uniform cucumber slices and neat vegetable decorations. A small cookie cutter can help create the perfect star shape from the bell pepper for the tree topper. Arrange the vegetables carefully for a balanced and festive appearance.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Add extra color and texture by including thinly sliced radishes or multicolored bell peppers. For a non-vegan twist, sprinkle the platter with feta or mozzarella pearls. Experiment with different herbs for garnish such as cilantro or basil for varied flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this festive vegetable tree immediately to enjoy its crisp freshness. Accompany with your favorite dips such as hummus, ranch, tzatziki, guacamole, or vegan ranch. It pairs well with other party favorites and is an inviting starter for holiday meals.
Save This Festive Tree Cucumber Tomato Platter is more than an appetizer—it's a cheerful statement of health and creativity that will brighten any festive occasion. Enjoy crafting this easy, no-cook dish that invites everyone to snack joyfully.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I create the tree shape with cucumbers?
Slice cucumbers into thin rounds and arrange them in overlapping rows, starting wide at the base and narrowing towards the top to resemble a Christmas tree.
- → What vegetables can I use as ornaments?
Halved cherry tomatoes and small broccoli florets work well as colorful ornaments on the cucumber tree.
- → How do I make the star for the tree topper?
Use a small cookie cutter to cut a star shape from a yellow bell pepper slice and place it at the top of the tree.
- → Can I add variety to the colors on the platter?
Yes, adding thinly sliced radishes or multicolored bell peppers can enhance the visual appeal with extra pops of color.
- → What dips complement this vegetable arrangement?
Popular dips include hummus, vegan ranch, tzatziki, or guacamole, served on the side to keep flavors fresh and light.
- → Is this suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets?
The platter consists entirely of fresh vegetables and naturally fits vegan and gluten-free diets.