Pin 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.
This platter is always a hit when I bring it to gatherings, especially with kids who love helping to assemble the ladybugs.
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.
Pin it This recipe brings my family together especially when kids help make the ladybugs creating fun memories.
Notes
For extra flavor drizzle with olive oil or a lemon-herb vinaigrette before serving. Substitute vegan cheese to make the platter fully plant-based. Serve with crackers or pita chips if desired. Kids can help assemble the ladybugs for a fun activity.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, toothpicks, large serving platter, small spoon or toothpick for balsamic glaze
Nutritional Information
Calories 105, Total Fat 5 g, Carbohydrates 9 g, Protein 5 g per serving
Pin it This platter is easy to customize and impresses guests with its playful look.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the ladybug shapes using vegetables?
Slice cherry tomatoes in half for the ladybug bodies and use halved black olives for heads. Attach olives to tomatoes with toothpicks and decorate with balsamic glaze or black sesame seeds for spots.
- → Can I make this platter vegan-friendly?
Yes, substitute the mini mozzarella balls with a plant-based cheese alternative to keep the platter fully plant-based.
- → What are some suggested garnishes for added flavor?
Fresh chives sprinkled over the platter and a drizzle of balsamic glaze or lemon-herb vinaigrette can enhance the flavors pleasantly.
- → Is any cooking required for this dish?
No cooking is needed; the platter is assembled with fresh, raw vegetables and cheese, making it quick and easy to prepare.
- → What tools are needed to assemble the platter?
A sharp knife, cutting board, toothpicks, a large serving platter, and a small spoon or toothpick for glazing are sufficient.