Save It A whimsical and colorful appetizer platter featuring fresh vegetables and cheese creatively arranged to resemble ladybugs in a garden—perfect for parties, picnics, or kids gatherings.
I enjoy making this platter because it is not only visually delightful but also encourages kids to eat more vegetables.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 18 cherry tomatoes, 18 black olives (pitted), 2 medium cucumbers, 1 yellow bell pepper, 1 cup baby spinach leaves, 1 cup broccoli florets
- Cheese: 12 mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Garnishes: 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze, 2 tablespoons fresh chives finely chopped, 1 tablespoon black sesame seeds
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Slice the cucumbers into ½-inch thick rounds and arrange them on a large serving platter to form the garden base.
- Step 2:
- Place baby spinach leaves and broccoli florets around the cucumber slices for a lush, green effect.
- Step 3:
- Cut each cherry tomato in half. Place one half, cut side down, on a cucumber slice to form the ladybugs body.
- Step 4:
- Slice black olives in half; attach one half to each tomato using a toothpick to form the ladybugs head.
- Step 5:
- Use a toothpick dipped in balsamic glaze to dot the cherry tomato backs, or sprinkle a few black sesame seeds onto each for the spots.
- Step 6:
- Place a mozzarella ball beside some of the ladybugs for contrast, and add strips of yellow bell pepper as garden paths.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle fresh chives over the platter for a grassy effect.
- Step 8:
- Carefully remove toothpicks before serving.
Save It My family loves assembling the ladybugs together, making it a fun activity before enjoying the delicious platter.
Tips for Serving
Drizzle with olive oil or a lemon-herb vinaigrette before serving for extra flavor. Pair with crackers or pita chips for a complete appetizer.
Substitutions
Use vegan cheese to make this platter fully plant-based and continue to enjoy the fun shapes and flavors.
Storage
Best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving. Remove toothpicks prior to storage to avoid hazards.
Save It This Ladybug Garden Platter is a colorful, healthy addition to any gathering and a delightful way to enjoy fresh vegetables.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables are used in this platter?
Cherry tomatoes, black olives, cucumbers, yellow bell peppers, baby spinach leaves, and broccoli florets are used for a fresh and colorful presentation.
- → How are the ladybug shapes created?
Cherry tomatoes are halved and placed cut side down, with black olive halves attached as heads, and balsamic glaze or black sesame seeds added as spots.
- → Can this platter accommodate dietary preferences?
Yes, it is vegetarian and gluten-free. Vegan cheese can replace mozzarella to make it fully plant-based.
- → How long does preparation take?
Preparation takes about 25 minutes with no cooking required, making it a quick and easy option.
- → Are there suggestions to enhance flavor?
Drizzling olive oil or a lemon-herb vinaigrette before serving can add extra flavor to the platter.