Save to Pinterest 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.
I love presenting this broccoli tree at family gatherings because the kids are always excited to eat their vegetables when they look so festive.
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: 2 large heads , cut into bite-sized florets
- Cherry tomatoes: 18–20 cherry tomatoes
- Yellow bell pepper: 1 , sliced into thin strips (for garland and star)
- Carrot: 1 medium , sliced into rounds (for tree trunk and decoration)
- Celery stalk: 1 , cut into 2-inch sticks (optional , for base or accents)
- Dip (optional): 1 cup hummus or ranch dip
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.
Save to Pinterest This dish always brings a smile when shared, turning snack time into a festive occasion.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or board , sharp knife , small cookie cutter (for star , optional)
Allergen Information
Contains none in basic recipe . Check dip labels for dairy , soy , or sesame allergens if using.
Nutritional Information
Calories 45 , total fat 0.5 g , carbohydrates 8 g , protein 3 g per serving (without dip)
Save to Pinterest This festive vegetable tree makes healthy eating fun and quick to prepare.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the broccoli fresh and crisp?
Lightly steaming broccoli for 1–2 minutes and chilling it before assembling helps maintain a crisp texture and vibrant color.
- → Can I substitute cherry tomatoes with other vegetables?
Yes, small radishes or sliced snap peas can create a similar colorful effect as ornaments on the broccoli tree.
- → What is the best way to cut the bell pepper star?
Using a small cookie cutter ensures a clean, uniform star shape for decorating the top of the vegetable tree.
- → Are there suggestions for dipping options?
Hummus or ranch dip pairs well, but plant-based dips are great alternatives for vegan preferences.
- → How can I make the display more stable on the platter?
Arrange the broccoli tightly and use celery sticks at the base to provide extra support, preventing the tree from toppling.
- → Is this platter suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe option for gluten-sensitive individuals.