Save Broccoli Tree with Cherry Tomato Ornaments 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 brings a festive touch to my family gatherings and my kids love helping assemble the tree each year
Ingredients
- 2 large heads broccoli: cut into bite-sized florets
- 18–20 cherry tomatoes: vibrant ornaments
- 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 for serving
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 creates special family moments as everyone helps decorate and enjoy the festive tree together
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
Calories 45 Total Fat 0.5 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 3 g per serving without dip
Save This festive broccoli tree is sure to brighten any celebration and delight your guests with its healthy charm
Kitchen Questions
- → How can I keep the broccoli fresh and crisp?
Lightly steaming the broccoli for 1-2 minutes then chilling it before assembly helps maintain a crisp texture and vibrant green color.
- → What alternatives can I use for the bell pepper star?
You can use a small cookie cutter to shape other vegetables like cucumber or yellow squash in place of the bell pepper star.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the vegetables and assembling the tree shortly before serving keeps it fresh, but avoid assembling too far in advance to prevent sogginess.
- → What dips pair well with this platter?
Hummus, ranch dip, or any creamy vegetable-based dips complement the flavors and textures of the vegetable arrangement nicely.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables for variety?
Absolutely, adding radishes, snap peas, or colorful peppers enhances both appearance and flavor diversity.