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Fresh Christmas Tree Veggie Platter – Easy Festive Holiday Appetizer

Fresh Christmas Tree Veggie Platter - featured image
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This festive veggie platter is shaped like a Christmas tree and features crisp, colorful vegetables arranged with creativity for a showstopping holiday centerpiece. It’s quick to assemble, allergy-friendly, and perfect for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (about 10 oz)
  • 2 medium cucumbers, sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas or green beans
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into squares or stars
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares or stars
  • 1 orange bell pepper, cut into squares or stars
  • 6–8 radishes, thinly sliced
  • 2 large carrots, cut into coins or sticks
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1/2 cup black or green olives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup cheese stars or cubes (optional, sharp cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 2–3 celery sticks or pretzel rods (for trunk)
  • 1 cup ranch dip, hummus, or favorite veggie dip

Instructions

  1. Wash and prep all veggies: Rinse broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, snap peas, bell peppers, radishes, olives, and carrots under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Slice cucumbers into 1/4-inch rounds; cut bell peppers into squares or use cookie cutters for stars. Slice radishes thinly, chop carrots into coins or sticks, and break broccoli and cauliflower into small florets. Cut cheese into small cubes or stars, if using.
  3. Arrange broccoli florets in a large triangle shape (about 12 inches tall) on your platter. Layer cucumber slices across the broccoli, overlapping slightly for a ‘branch’ effect. Tuck snap peas or green beans along the edges to fill gaps and add dimension.
  4. Scatter cherry tomatoes, bell pepper stars, radish slices, carrot coins, olives, and cheese stars evenly across the tree. Place cauliflower florets at the tips and along the edges for a snowy look.
  5. Place celery sticks or pretzel rods at the base of the tree for the trunk. Anchor with extra veggies or cheese cubes if needed.
  6. Fill empty spots with extra veggies or cheese. Spoon dip around the base as a ‘tree skirt’ or serve in small bowls nearby. Add a star-shaped bell pepper or cheese piece at the top if desired.
  7. Wipe platter edges clean for a polished look. Chill until ready to serve, loosely covered with plastic wrap if prepping ahead.

Notes

Use firm, vibrant veggies for best results. Pat veggies dry before assembling to prevent sogginess. For dairy-free or vegan, skip cheese and use vegan dips. Assemble just before serving for maximum freshness. If prepping ahead, keep veggies wrapped in damp paper towels and assemble an hour before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas, holiday, veggie platter, appetizer, vegetarian, gluten-free, party, festive, healthy, easy, centerpiece

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/fresh-christmas-tree-veggie-platter-easy-festive-holiday-appetizer/