Save A festive and colorful platter of fresh vegetables arranged as ornament dippers, perfect for holiday gatherings and healthy snacking.
This platter brings joy to my family as we enjoy crunchy vegetables in a fun, festive way every Christmas season
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 Making these ornament dippers has become a cherished family tradition that brings everyone together during the holidays
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 With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors this recipe adds festive fun and healthy crunch to any holiday table
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → What vegetables work best for ornament shapes?
Bell peppers, cucumbers, and carrots cut into rounds hold shape well and create colorful ornaments. Cherry tomatoes and snap peas can be skewered whole for variety.
- → How can I make the platter gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadsticks in place of pretzel sticks to avoid gluten while maintaining the decorative effect.
- → What dips complement the vegetable dippers?
Creamy hummus and ranch or Greek yogurt dips provide smooth, flavorful contrasts to the crisp vegetables.
- → Can I prepare this platter ahead of time?
Yes, cut and arrange the vegetables shortly before serving to maintain freshness and crispness, and keep dips chilled until use.
- → Are there options to add festive flair beyond vegetables?
Sprinkle pomegranate seeds, sesame, and poppy seeds on top for color; edible gold dust or dill sprigs add elegant touches.