Save to Pinterest Celebrate the holiday season with a vibrant twist on roasted vegetables that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Christmas Present Veggie Crates transform simple veggies into charming, colorful gift-shaped bundles, making your festive table extra special. This creative side dish not only adds a pop of color but also infuses your gathering with warmth and fun, perfect for any holiday feast.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is designed to bring out the natural sweetness and texture of each vegetable through roasting, while the herbs add an aromatic depth. Wrapping the veggie crates with fresh chives not only looks delightful but also adds a subtle onion flavor that complements the roasted vegetables beautifully.
Ingredients
- 2 medium carrots, peeled
- 1 large zucchini
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 small butternut squash, peeled and seeded
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
- 1 small red onion
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- ½ bunch fresh chives (for ribbons and bows)
- 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds (optional, for sparkle)
- 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Cut the carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and butternut squash into uniform rectangular sticks or cubes, about 1 inch in size, to resemble gift boxes. Slice the red onion into thick wedges.
- 3. In a large bowl, toss all vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary until evenly coated.
- 4. Arrange the vegetables in tight, square clusters on the prepared baking sheet to form small crates or presents. Keep similar colors together for a striking effect.
- 5. Roast for 25–30 minutes, until vegetables are tender and edges are caramelized.
- 6. Remove from the oven. Let cool slightly, then use fresh chives to wrap each veggie crate like a ribbon, tying small bows on top if possible.
- 7. Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and parsley for festive flair.
- 8. Serve warm or at room temperature on a platter.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using uniform cuts ensures even roasting and helps the veggie crates hold together better. Allowing the vegetables to caramelize slightly brings out their natural sugars for a richer flavor. Wrapping with fresh chives not only decorates but enhances taste with a mild onion note. Consider lining the baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try adding sweet potato or parsnip for more variety and color. This recipe can easily be adapted into a vegan main dish by serving the veggie crates over a bed of quinoa or wild rice. For an extra flavor boost, drizzle with balsamic glaze just before serving.
Serviervorschläge
These festive veggie presents make a stunning side dish for holiday dinners or any celebratory meal. Serve them warm or at room temperature on a large platter for effortless entertaining. Garnishing with pomegranate seeds adds a jeweled sparkle that elevates the presentation.
Save to Pinterest With these Christmas Present Veggie Crates, you bring festive cheer right to the table with a dish that’s both beautiful and delicious. Their colorful appearance and fresh, herbaceous finish make them sure crowd-pleasers at any holiday gathering, creating memories as lovely as the meal itself.