Save to Pinterest A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This veggie dish was always the centerpiece at our family holiday parties, bringing both beauty and flavor to the table.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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:
- 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 recipe always brings smiles to my family's faces and adds a special touch to our celebrations.
Notes
For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative. Use sweet potatoes or purple carrots for more color. Wine pairing suggestions include 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 is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables are used for the sleigh rails?
Carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and parsnip sticks are used for vibrant colors and textures.
- → How are the vegetables prepared before roasting?
They are cut into 4-inch sticks and tossed in a marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
- → How long should the vegetables be roasted?
Roast for 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), turning once halfway, until tender and caramelized.
- → What is a suitable wine pairing with this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the fresh, roasted flavors well.