Save 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 has been a hit at every holiday party I've hosted, delighting both kids and adults with its playful design and fresh flavors.
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.
Save This recipe always brings my family together, with kids enjoying the fun shapes and adults appreciating the healthy snack.
Required Tools
Large serving platter or board, sharp knife, and a small cookie cutter for the star shape (optional).
Allergen Information
The basic recipe contains no allergens, but check dips for dairy, soy, or sesame.
Nutritional Information
Per serving without dip: 45 calories, 0.5 g total fat, 8 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein.
Save Enjoy this festive and nutritious snack that adds color and cheer to any gathering.
Recipe FAQ
- → What vegetables are used to decorate the broccoli tree?
Cherry tomatoes for ornaments, yellow bell pepper strips for garlands, carrot rounds for the tree trunk, and optional celery sticks for accents.
- → Can the broccoli be steamed before assembling?
Yes, lightly steaming the broccoli for 1–2 minutes enhances flavor and texture; just chill before arranging.
- → What dips pair well with this vegetable platter?
Hummus or ranch dip complements the fresh flavors, and plant-based dips work for vegan options.
- → How do I create the bell pepper star on top?
Use a small cookie cutter to cut a star shape from a yellow bell pepper slice, then place it at the tree's top.
- → Is this platter suitable for special diets?
Yes, it is vegetarian and gluten-free; just check dip ingredients for potential allergens.