Save to Pinterest A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.
I enjoy making this dish because it brings vibrant colors and festive spirit to our holiday table.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 medium carrots peeled and cut into 4 inch sticks, 1 red bell pepper cut into strips, 1 yellow bell pepper cut into strips, 1 small zucchini cut into 4 inch sticks, 1 small parsnip peeled and cut into 4 inch sticks
- Marinade: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp balsamic vinegar, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Garnish: 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional), 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
- Step 3:
- Add the carrot, bell pepper, zucchini, and parsnip sticks to the bowl. Toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the vegetable sticks on the prepared baking sheet in parallel pairs to resemble sleigh rails, alternating colors for a festive look.
- Step 5:
- Roast in the oven for 20 25 minutes, turning once halfway, until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Step 6:
- Transfer the roasted veggie rails to a serving platter. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and fresh parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save to Pinterest This is a family favorite that always brings smiles during our holiday celebrations.
Notes
Use sweet potatoes or purple carrots for more color and experiment with wine pairings like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir.
Required Tools
Chefs knife, cutting board, baking sheet, parchment paper, mixing bowl, tongs or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta cheese). Omit or substitute for a dairy free alternative if necessary. Always verify ingredient labels for potential cross contamination if serving those with allergies.
Save to Pinterest This appetizer adds a bright festive touch to your holiday feast and is sure to impress guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables work best for this dish?
Carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and parsnips create the colorful sleigh rails, offering a mix of sweetness and texture.
- → How do I ensure even roasting of the vegetables?
Cut vegetables into uniform 4-inch sticks and arrange them spaced evenly on parchment-lined baking sheets to promote consistent roasting and caramelization.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with plant-based alternatives without affecting the vibrant flavors.
- → What wine pairs well with these roasted vegetables?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the herbaceous and caramelized notes of the roasted veggies elegantly.
- → Are there suggested dips to accompany this dish?
Yogurt-herb dips or hummus pair wonderfully, enhancing the roasted vegetable flavors and adding creamy textures.
- → How long should the vegetables be roasted?
Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through to achieve tender and slightly caramelized results.