Christmas Wreath Vegetable Platter

The celebrations of the season are in full swing. Parties left and right and feasting abound. In light of all the goodies and treats that are often over abundant, I love to offer something healthful. As I was gearing up to bring a veggie tray to my son’s class for his holiday party, I contemplated just how I could make it fun as well. After all the energy I expended over Halloween to ensure the school parties were healthier, I knew I had to set an good example and make an impression. So, I decided to make a festive platter in the shape of a wreath. I had wanted to find a Christmas tree shaped platter at first to decorate, but could not locate one. Thus the wreath idea was born. This is super simple and fun and any nice circle platter will do to serve it.

Christmas Wreath Vegetable Platter

3-4 heads organic broccoli

1/2 pint organic grape or cherry tomatoes

1 red bell pepper

Homemade Ranch Dip

Large platter

Small glass bowl

Chop the broccoli into bite sized pieces. Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Place broccoli pieces into boiling water and blanch for 3 minutes. Pour into a colander in the sink and immediately rinse with cold water until there is no more steam coming off the veggies. Dry well in a bowl lined with a tea towel.

Once broccoli is dry, start to arrange on a platter. Place a small bowl in the center of the platter and arrange the broccoli florets around it. Once you are satisfied with your broccoli wreath, garnish it with tomatoes placing some on the inside of the circle closer to the bowl and some around the outside edge. Be sure to leave a space at the bottom to create the bow.  For the bow, slice the red pepper at the top and cut two 1/2 inch thick circles, trimming away any unwanted white or seeds. Then from the remaining pepper cut two thin strips for the rest of the bow. Arrange the two circles at the bottom and place the strips underneath to form a bow. Wallah, you have created a very festive Christmas Wreath Vegetable Platter. Enjoy!