Save 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.
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 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
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (mozzarella balls). Olives may be processed in facilities with nuts check labels if allergies are a concern. Always verify cheese ingredients for vegetarians.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories 105 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 9 g Protein 5 g
Save Recipe FAQ
- → How do you create the ladybug shapes on the platter?
Cherry tomatoes are halved for the ladybug bodies, with black olive halves forming the heads. Balsamic glaze or black sesame seeds add signature spotting details.
- → What ingredients create the garden base?
Slices of cucumber make a fresh green foundation, accented by baby spinach leaves and broccoli florets for a lush garden feel.
- → Can this platter accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, it’s vegetarian and gluten-free. For a vegan version, substitute the mini mozzarella with plant-based cheese alternatives.
- → What tools are needed to assemble this platter?
A sharp knife, cutting board, toothpicks, and a large serving platter are essential for slicing and arranging the components neatly.
- → Are there serving suggestions to enhance flavor?
Drizzling olive oil or a lemon-herb vinaigrette before serving can add extra depth and brightness to the platter.