How far in advance can we prepare this platter?

We recommend assembling the complete platter no more than four to six hours before serving for optimal freshness. However, all vegetable preparation can occur twenty-four hours in advance.

What size platter works best for different guest counts?

For intimate gatherings of 6-8 guests, a 14-inch platter suffices using half the ingredient quantities. Medium parties of 10-15 people require the full recipe on an 18-inch platter.

Which vegetables maintain crispness longest?

Celery, carrots, and bell peppers retain crunch for extended periods. Green beans and snap peas stay fresh for approximately four hours when properly chilled. Cucumbers release moisture over time, so we add them closest to serving time. Cauliflower remains stable throughout most events.

Can we use frozen vegetables?

We strongly discourage frozen vegetables for this application. The thawing process releases excess moisture that compromises texture and causes sogginess.

What dip quantities should we prepare?

Plan for approximately three to four tablespoons of total dip per guest. If offering three dip varieties, prepare one cup of each for every eight guests.

Veggie Christmas Tree Platter Recipe, Easy Holiday Appetizer

Name: Veggie Christmas Tree Platter
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: ✓1.0 large head celery; ✓1.0 pound green beans or sugar snap peas; ✓2.0 medium green bell peppers; ✓1.0 large zucchini; ✓3.0 medium carrots; ✓2.0 red bell peppers; ✓1.0 yellow bell pepper (optional); ✓22 cherry tomatoes (mix of red and yellow); ✓1.0 small cucumber; ✓1.0 medium head cauliflower; ✓1.0 cup uncooked bow-tie pasta (for star); ✓Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Veggie Christmas Tree Platter

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Create a stunning veggie Christmas tree platter perfect for holiday gatherings. This healthy appetizer features fresh vegetables arranged in a festive tree shape with colorful accents.

Author: Emily
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients

For the Tree Structure:

✓1.0 large head celery
✓1.0 pound green beans or sugar snap peas
✓2.0 medium green bell peppers
✓1.0 large zucchini

For Decorations:

✓3.0 medium carrots
✓2.0 red bell peppers
✓1.0 yellow bell pepper (optional)
✓22 cherry tomatoes (mix of red and yellow)
✓1.0 small cucumber

For Base and Accents:

✓1.0 medium head cauliflower
✓1.0 cup uncooked bow-tie pasta (for star)
✓Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and thoroughly dry all vegetables. Cut celery into 4-inch strips. Trim green beans. Slice bell peppers into 1/4-inch strips. Peel and cut carrots into matchsticks. Slice cucumber and zucchini into 1/4-inch rounds (reserve 2-inch section of zucchini for trunk). Break cauliflower into small florets.

Cook the Pasta Star

Cook bow-tie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and pat completely dry. Set aside.

Create the Tree Outline

On a large serving platter (16-18 inches), position zucchini trunk pieces vertically at the bottom center. Arrange celery strips in horizontal rows moving upward, gradually decreasing width to form a tree shape.

Layer Green Vegetables

Fill in the tree outline with green beans or snap peas and green bell pepper strips. Layer slightly overlapping to create full coverage and textural depth.

Add Decorative Accents

Arrange carrot sticks and red bell pepper strips diagonally across the tree to create garland effects. Distribute cherry tomatoes, cucumber rounds, and yellow pepper strips throughout as ornaments.

Final Touches

Arrange bow-tie pasta in a star formation at the tree top. Create a snow base by arranging cauliflower florets generously along the bottom of the platter. Add fresh herb sprigs if desired.

Serve

Serve immediately with assorted dips arranged in small bowls around the platter. Keep refrigerated if not serving within 30 minutes.

Notes

💡 Pro Tips & Notes

•Make Ahead: Prepare all vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Store in airtight containers with paper towels to absorb moisture. Assemble 4-6 hours before serving.
•Platter Size: Use a 14-inch platter for 6-8 guests, 18-inch for 10-15 guests, or 24-inch for 20+ guests.
•Keep It Fresh: Position away from heat sources. For long events, prepare a backup platter to swap midway through.
•Customization: Substitute broccoli florets for green beans, or use jicama/daikon for the star instead of pasta.
Excellent source of: Vitamin A (120% DV), Vitamin C (95% DV)

Good source of: Fiber (3-4g), Iron (8% DV)

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup vegetables + 2 tbsp dip
Calories: 85-120
Sugar: 6-8g
Sodium: 150-280mg
Fat: 3-8g
Saturated Fat: 0.5-2g
Carbohydrates: 12-15g
Fiber: 3-4g
Protein: 3-5g
Cholesterol: 0-10mg

Find it online: https://www.recipescommunity.com/veggie-christmas-tree-platter/