Pin A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.
I enjoy making these veggie rails every holiday season as they bring both a festive spirit and a healthy option 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
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make Marinade:
- In a large bowl combine olive oil balsamic vinegar thyme rosemary salt and pepper to make the marinade.
- Coat Vegetables:
- Add the carrot bell pepper zucchini and parsnip sticks to the bowl. Toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly.
- Arrange Veggies:
- Arrange the vegetable sticks on the prepared baking sheet in parallel pairs to resemble sleigh rails alternating colors for a festive look.
- Roast:
- Roast in the oven for 20 25 minutes turning once halfway until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve:
- 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.
Pin This recipe always brings my family together as we enjoy the seasonal colors and flavors 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 that complements the dish nicely.
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.
Pin This festive appetizer adds color and flavor to any holiday gathering making it both delicious and visually appealing.
Recipe Questions
- → What vegetables are used for the sleigh rails?
Carrots, red and yellow bell peppers, zucchini, and parsnip cut into sticks form the colorful base.
- → How are the vegetables flavored before roasting?
They are tossed in a marinade of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper for balanced taste.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, by omitting the feta cheese or using a plant-based alternative.
- → What is the best way to arrange the vegetables for presentation?
Arrange the sticks in parallel pairs, alternating colors to resemble sleigh rails for a festive look.
- → What wine pairs well with these roasted veggies?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or light Pinot Noir complements the flavors nicely.
- → How long does it take to roast the vegetables?
Roast for 20–25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), turning once halfway through for even caramelization.