Save to Pinterest 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 at family gatherings and the kids love helping 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.
Save to Pinterest Kids can help assemble the ladybugs for a fun activity making it a lovely family project.
Required Tools
Sharp knife Cutting board Toothpicks Large serving platter Small spoon or toothpick for balsamic glaze
Allergen Information
Always verify cheese ingredients for vegetarians.
Nutritional Information
Calories 105 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 9 g Protein 5 g per serving
Save to Pinterest Serve chilled and enjoy this fresh and delightful ladybug garden platter.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I make the ladybug shapes stay intact?
Use toothpicks to secure the olive heads to tomato halves on cucumber slices. This helps maintain the shape during serving.
- → Can I prepare this platter ahead of time?
Yes, slice and arrange vegetables shortly before serving to maintain freshness and crisp texture.
- → What can I use as a vegan cheese substitute?
Try plant-based mozzarella alternatives or marinated tofu balls for a similar look and flavor.
- → What garnishes enhance the garden effect?
Chopped fresh chives sprinkled over the platter and thin yellow bell pepper strips create a lush garden appearance.
- → How should balsamic glaze be applied?
Use a small spoon or toothpick to dot glaze over tomato backs or sprinkle black sesame seeds for elegant detailing.