Save A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer has become a holiday favorite in my family due to its vibrant presentation and delicious flavor.
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 Sharing this dish always brings joy to our holiday table and sparks compliments from guests.
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.
Nutritional Information
Calories 115 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 12 g Protein 2 g per serving
Save This festive appetizer combines simplicity with beautiful presentation for holiday success.
Kitchen Help
- → What vegetables are used in the sleigh rails?
Carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and parsnips are cut into sticks and roasted for this dish.
- → How is the vegetable marinade made?
The marinade combines olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper for a balanced, savory flavor.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative for a vegan-friendly version.
- → What is the cooking method for these vegetable rails?
The vegetable sticks are arranged on a baking sheet and roasted at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- → What pairings complement the roasted veggie rails?
They pair well with a yogurt-herb dip or hummus, along with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir wine.
- → How can I add more color variations?
Try substituting sweet potatoes or purple carrots to add vibrant hues and variety to the veggie rails.