Save to Pinterest A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.
This appetizer quickly became a holiday favorite in my family's celebrations, adding color and cheer to the table.
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 to Pinterest This recipe brings a joyful moment as family members gather around the table, admiring the festive veggies and sharing holiday stories.
Wine Pairing
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the dish well, balancing the roasted flavors.
Required Tools
Chef's 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.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy this vibrant appetizer warm or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What vegetables are used in the sleigh rails?
Carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and parsnip sticks create the colorful veggie rails.
- → How are the vegetables seasoned before roasting?
A marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper coats the vegetables.
- → Can this dish be adapted for vegan diets?
Yes, omit the feta or replace it with a plant-based alternative for a vegan-friendly option.
- → What is the recommended oven temperature and cooking time?
Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway for even caramelization.
- → Are there suggested pairings for these vegetable rails?
They pair well with yogurt-herb dip or hummus, and pair nicely with Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Noir wines.