Save to Pinterest A festive, fun way to serve roasted vegetables — shaped and decorated like colorful gift boxes, perfect for holiday gatherings.
This recipe has become a holiday favorite at our family gatherings, always bringing smiles and compliments.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 medium carrots peeled, 1 large zucchini, 1 red bell pepper, 1 yellow bell pepper, 1 small butternut squash peeled and seeded, 1 bunch asparagus trimmed, 1 small red onion
- Seasonings & Oil: 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp sea salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Garnishes & Decoration: ½ bunch fresh chives for ribbons and bows, 2 tbsp pomegranate seeds optional for sparkle, 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Cut the carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and butternut squash into uniform rectangular sticks or cubes, about 1 inch in size, to resemble gift boxes. Slice the red onion into thick wedges.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl, toss all vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary until evenly coated.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the vegetables in tight, square clusters on the prepared baking sheet to form small crates or presents. Keep similar colors together for a striking effect.
- Step 5:
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, until vegetables are tender and edges are caramelized.
- Step 6:
- Remove from the oven. Let cool slightly, then use fresh chives to wrap each veggie crate like a ribbon, tying small bows on top if possible.
- Step 7:
- Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and parsley for festive flair.
- Step 8:
- Serve warm or at room temperature on a platter.
Save to Pinterest This recipe always brings the family together. Watching everyone enjoy the colors and flavors makes the holidays extra special.
Required Tools
Chefs knife, cutting board, large mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper
Allergen Information
Naturally free from common allergens. Check herb and spice blends for cross contamination if allergies are severe.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 120, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 16 g, Protein: 2 g per serving
Save to Pinterest 
This festive dish adds a joyful touch to any holiday meal and is sure to impress your guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables make up the colorful crates?
The crates include carrots, zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, butternut squash, asparagus, and red onion, all cut into uniform shapes for easy roasting and visual appeal.
- → How are the vegetables seasoned before roasting?
The vegetables are tossed with olive oil, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary to enhance their natural flavors.
- → How do you create the festive ribbon effect?
Fresh chives are used to wrap each roasted vegetable cluster, tied into small bows to mimic decorative ribbons on gift crates.
- → Can this dish be served warm or cold?
These vegetable crates are delicious served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for holiday settings.
- → Are there optional garnishes to enhance appearance?
Pomegranate seeds and finely chopped fresh parsley are optional garnishes that add a festive sparkle and freshness to the dish.