Pin It A festive, fun way to serve roasted vegetables — shaped and decorated like colorful gift boxes, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe always brings a smile during holiday meals and is a fun way to enjoy veggies.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 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
- Seasonings & Oil: 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Garnishes & Decoration: ½ bunch fresh chives (for ribbons and bows), 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds (optional, for sparkle), 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut 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.
- Toss:
- In a large bowl, toss all vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary until evenly coated.
- 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.
- Roast:
- Roast for 25 30 minutes until vegetables are tender and edges are caramelized.
- Cool and Tie:
- 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.
- Garnish:
- Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and parsley for festive flair.
- Serve:
- Serve warm or at room temperature on a platter.
Pin It Making these veggie crates has become a favorite family tradition during the holidays.
Required Tools
Chefs knife, cutting board, large mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper
Allergen Information
Naturally free from common allergens. Check herb and spice blends for cross-contamination if allergies are severe.
Nutritional Information
Calories 120, Total Fat 6 g, Carbohydrates 16 g, Protein 2 g per serving
Pin It
These veggie crates deliver a festive touch that delights guests and keeps veggies exciting.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What vegetables are used in these festive crates?
Carrots, zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, butternut squash, asparagus, and red onion form the colorful base.
- → How are the vegetables arranged to look like gift boxes?
Vegetables are cut into uniform rectangular sticks or cubes and tightly clustered in square shapes on the baking sheet.
- → What seasonings enhance the flavor?
Olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary blend naturally with the roasted vegetables.
- → How can I decorate the veggie crates for a festive look?
Fresh chives are used as ribbons and bows, with optional pomegranate seeds adding sparkle on top.
- → Can I make substitutions to the vegetables?
Yes, sweet potato, parsnip, or other colorful root vegetables work well for added variation.