Save Celebrate the holiday season with Christmas Present Veggie Crates, a playful and vibrant way to enjoy roasted vegetables. These beautifully arranged colorful gift boxes, made from seasonal produce, bring both cheer and flavor to your festive table. Perfect as a side dish, they impress guests with their charming presentation and deliciously tender texture.
Save This recipe invites you to transform everyday vegetables into centers of holiday joy. The charm lies not only in taste but also in the presentation—tiny, tight clusters of veggie "presents," wrapped with fresh chives to mimic ribbons and bows. A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds adds a festive sparkle, making it as fun to look at as it is to eat.
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 Oven
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2. Prepare Vegetables
- 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. Season
- In a large bowl, toss all vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary until evenly coated.
- 4. Arrange
- 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
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, until vegetables are tender and edges are caramelized.
- 6. Decorate
- 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. Garnish
- Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and parsley for festive flair.
- 8. Serve
- Serve warm or at room temperature on a platter.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Be sure to cut the vegetables into uniform pieces for even roasting and an attractive presentation. Tying the chive ribbons gently will keep the crates intact and add a charming touch. Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Try adding sweet potato, parsnip, or other colorful root vegetables for variety. For a vegan main dish, serve the veggie crates over quinoa or wild rice. A drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving adds an extra depth of flavor.
Serviervorschläge
Present the veggie crates on a large platter, perfect for holiday gatherings. They pair well with roasted mains or can shine as a standalone vegetarian side. The pomegranate seeds add a festive look and a burst of juicy sweetness.
Save With a blend of simple ingredients and thoughtful assembly, Christmas Present Veggie Crates become a centerpiece of holiday cheer. Their balance of vibrant color, rustic texture, and aromatic herbs invites guests to enjoy wholesome, beautifully presented vegetables that celebrate the season.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use other vegetables in this dish?
Yes, root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips can be added to enhance color and flavor.
- → What herbs complement the vegetables best?
Thyme and rosemary provide a fragrant, earthy aroma that pairs well with the roasted vegetables.
- → How should the vegetables be cut for best results?
Cut vegetables into uniform rectangular sticks or cubes about 1 inch in size to resemble neat boxes that roast evenly.
- → Is this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it appropriate for gluten-sensitive diets.
- → Can the roasted vegetables be served cold?
They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for various serving preferences.
- → What can I use to add a festive garnish?
Fresh chives wrapped as ribbons and pomegranate seeds sprinkled on top add a festive, colorful touch.