Pin this A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become a holiday tradition in my family where everyone loves the festive presentation and fresh flavors.
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.
Pin this Making these veggie rails together has become a cherished family moment during the holidays, filled with joy and laughter.
Notes
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.
Pin this This appetizer is a colorful and tasty way to start your holiday meal bringing festive cheer to your table.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables are used to make the sleigh rails?
Carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and parsnip sticks form the colorful base.
- → How are the vegetables prepared before roasting?
They are cut into 4-inch sticks and tossed with a marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- → What temperature and time are best for roasting?
Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway until tender and slightly caramelized.
- → Can the feta cheese be omitted or substituted?
Yes, omit for a vegan option or replace with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- → What dips complement the veggie rails well?
Yogurt-herb dips or hummus pair nicely with the roasted vegetables.
- → Are there any suggested wine pairings?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the flavors of the dish.