Pin It A whimsical and healthy party platter featuring broccoli florets arranged as a festive tree, adorned with vibrant cherry tomato ornaments. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a fun snack for kids.
This recipe always brings smiles at our holiday parties, especially with the kids who love decorating their own trees before eating.
Ingredients
- 2 large heads broccoli: cut into bite-sized florets
- 18–20 cherry tomatoes
- 1 yellow bell pepper: sliced into thin strips (for garland and star)
- 1 medium carrot: sliced into rounds (for tree trunk and decoration)
- 1 celery stalk: cut into 2-inch sticks (optional for base or accents)
- 1 cup hummus or ranch dip: optional
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and thoroughly dry all vegetables.
- Step 2:
- On a large platter or board arrange the broccoli florets in the shape of a triangle to form the tree.
- Step 3:
- Place cherry tomatoes evenly over the broccoli to mimic ornaments.
- Step 4:
- Use yellow bell pepper strips as garlands draped across the tree.
- Step 5:
- Cut a star shape from a bell pepper slice and place it at the top of the tree.
- Step 6:
- Arrange carrot rounds at the base as the tree trunk and scatter a few for extra decoration.
- Step 7:
- Optionally use celery sticks to frame the base or add greenery.
- Step 8:
- Serve with hummus or ranch dip on the side.
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It's always a joy to see family members gather around the platter and share memories while enjoying this healthy snack.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or board sharp knife small cookie cutter (for star optional)
Allergen Information
Contains None in basic recipe If serving with dip check for dairy soy or sesame allergens Always double-check dip labels for allergens
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 45 Total Fat 0.5 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 3 g
Pin It
This broccoli tree is a simple yet festive addition to any party table sure to impress and delight.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I keep the broccoli fresh and crisp?
Wash and thoroughly dry the broccoli florets before arranging. Lightly steaming for 1-2 minutes followed by chilling can enhance crispness and flavor.
- → Can I use other vegetables for decorations?
Yes, radishes, snap peas, or other colorful veggies can be added for variety and extra visual appeal.
- → How do I create the bell pepper star?
Use a small cookie cutter or carefully slice a bell pepper piece into a star shape to place at the top of the tree.
- → What dips pair well with this platter?
Hummus and ranch dips complement the fresh vegetable flavors, with plant-based dips as vegan alternatives if desired.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the vegetable arrangement and most dips are naturally gluten-free, but always check dip labels for allergens.