Pin it Festive and colorful veggie cubes stacked to resemble holiday gift boxes—a healthy, eye-catching snack perfect for parties and gatherings.
This recipe has been a hit at every celebration I brought it to; friends love both how it looks and tastes.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 medium cucumber, 2 large carrots, 1 large red bell pepper, 1 large yellow bell pepper, 1 medium zucchini, 1 small beet cooked and peeled, 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- Cheese & Garnishes: 1 cup feta cheese cut into 1/2-inch cubes (or firm mozzarella), 2 tbsp chives or green onions finely chopped, 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Ties & Decoration: 12 fresh chive stalks (or thin strips of bell pepper)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly.
- Step 2:
- Slice cucumber, carrots, zucchini, and beet into 1/2-inch thick slabs, then cut into even 1/2-inch cubes.
- Step 3:
- Cut bell peppers into 1/2-inch wide strips, then dice into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Step 4:
- Halve cherry tomatoes if large leave whole if small.
- Step 5:
- Arrange cubes of vegetables and cheese in colorful stacked layers (3 cubes each) alternating colors and flavors.
- Step 6:
- Secure each stack with a chive stalk or a thin strip of bell pepper tying gently to resemble a gift box ribbon.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions and sesame seeds (if using) over the stacks.
- Step 8:
- Arrange on a platter and serve immediately.
Pin it This snack always brings smiles when shared with family during holiday parties.
Notes
Serve with a side of hummus or yogurt dip for extra flavor. For best presentation use a sharp knife for clean-edged cubes.
Required Tools
Sharp chefs knife Cutting board Vegetable peeler Small serving platter
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta or mozzarella cheese) Sesame seeds may cause allergic reactions For allergies use dairy-free cheese and omit sesame seeds Always check product labels.
Pin it This recipe is quick to prepare and impresses every guest.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables are used in the stacked veggie cubes?
Cucumber, carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, cooked beet, and cherry tomatoes are used for vibrant colors and varied flavors.
- → How are the cubes assembled to resemble gift boxes?
Vegetable and feta cubes are layered in stacks of three and gently tied with fresh chive stalks or thin bell pepper strips, mimicking gift ribbons.
- → Can the cheese be substituted for a vegan option?
Yes, firm tofu cubes can replace cheese to keep the snack vegan-friendly without sacrificing texture.
- → Are there any allergens to be cautious about?
This dish contains dairy from feta or mozzarella and may include sesame seeds; dairy-free cheese and omission of seeds can accommodate allergies.
- → What are some suggested serving accompaniments?
Pair these colorful stacks with hummus or yogurt dips to enhance flavor and provide additional creaminess.
- → Is any special equipment needed for preparation?
A sharp chef's knife and a cutting board are essential for clean, uniform cubes, while a vegetable peeler can assist with prep.