Christmas Present Veggie Crates

A festive, fun way to serve roasted vegetables — shaped and decorated like colorful gift boxes, perfect for holiday gatherings.

I love making these crates because they bring color and joy to our holiday table every year.

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

Keep kitchen knives sharp for safer slicing, chopping, and precise prep during everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

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.

Keep kitchen knives sharp for safer slicing, chopping, and precise prep during everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Keep kitchen knives sharp for safer slicing, chopping, and precise prep during everyday cooking.

Check price on Amazon

Pin it

This recipe always brings smiles when my family gathers around the table during holidays.

Notes

Try adding sweet potato, parsnip, or other colorful root vegetables for variety. For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Required Tools

Chef&s 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.

Pin it

Serve homemade meals comfortably with sturdy utensils and steak knives for everyday dining and special dinners.

Check price on Amazon

A perfect colorful side dish that adds festive cheer while being simple to prepare.

Recipe Q&A

→ What vegetables are ideal for shaping into crates?

Carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, butternut squash, asparagus, and red onion work well due to their firm texture and vibrant colors.

→ How can I ensure vegetables roast evenly?

Cut vegetables into uniform pieces and arrange them tightly on the baking sheet to encourage even cooking and caramelization.

→ What seasonings complement these vegetables best?

A mix of olive oil, sea salt, fresh ground black pepper, dried thyme, and rosemary enhances their natural flavors beautifully.

→ How do I create the chive ribbons for decoration?

Use fresh chives, gently bend and tie them around the roasted vegetable clusters to resemble ribbons and bows.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes, sweet potatoes, parsnips, or other colorful root vegetables can be included for variety and extra flavor.