Save A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.
I remember serving this at our holiday party and everyone loved how vibrant and tasty the veggie rails were.
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 This recipe always brings smiles around our family table during the holidays.
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.
Save
A colorful and festive appetizer to brighten your holiday table and delight your guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables are best for this dish?
Carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and parsnip create a colorful and balanced medley perfect for roasting.
- → How long should the vegetables be roasted?
Roast the marinated vegetable sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, turning once halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
- → What herbs are used in the marinade?
Dried thyme and rosemary blend with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to infuse the vegetables with aromatic flavor.
- → What are good serving suggestions?
Serve warm or at room temperature, paired with a yogurt-herb dip or hummus for added flavor contrast.
- → Are there any suitable wine pairings?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the roasted vegetable flavors beautifully.