Pin It A festive and creative appetizer platter arranged in the shape of a turkey, perfect for holiday gatherings and sure to delight guests of all ages.
This tray has become a holiday tradition that brings smiles to everyone at our gatherings.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 yellow bell pepper sliced, 1 orange bell pepper sliced, 1 cup baby carrots, 1 cup cucumber slices, 1 cup celery sticks, 1 cup broccoli florets, 1/2 cup black olives
- Cheeses & Dips: 1 small wheel of soft cheese (e.g. brie or goat cheese) for the turkeys body, 1/4 cup cream cheese (for gluing features), 1/2 cup ranch or hummus dip (optional, for serving)
- Crackers & Extras: 1 cup assorted crackers (gluten-free if needed), 1 small red bell pepper for the turkeys wattle and beak, 2 mini mozzarella balls or small olives for eyes
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Place the small wheel of cheese at the bottom center of a large platter to form the turkeys body.
- Step 2:
- Slice a small piece of red bell pepper into a wattle shape and a small triangle for a beak. Attach both to the cheese wheel using a dab of cream cheese.
- Step 3:
- Add two mozzarella balls or small olives as eyes securing with cream cheese if needed.
- Step 4:
- Fan out the vegetables in colorful layers above the cheese body to resemble turkey feathers. Arrange the bell pepper slices carrots cucumber celery cherry tomatoes and broccoli in semi-circular rows alternating colors for visual appeal.
- Step 5:
- Place black olives among the feathers for extra detail and color contrast.
- Step 6:
- Arrange crackers and dip(s) around the sides of the tray or on a separate platter.
- Step 7:
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Pin It This appetizer tray always sparks fun conversations and brings the family closer during the holidays.
Notes
Swap in other vegetables such as snap peas radishes or cauliflower for variety. Use a dairy-free cheese wheel for a vegan version. For a meaty option add rolled slices of turkey or salami among the feathers. Pairs well with sparkling cider or light white wine.
Required Tools
Large serving platter Paring knife Small bowls (for dips) Small spoon or piping bag (for cream cheese details)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese cream cheese) some crackers may contain gluten and/or seeds. Check all dip and cracker labels for allergens substitute as needed for dietary restrictions.
Pin It This turkey appetizer tray is sure to be a standout at your next holiday gathering with minimal prep and maximum festive fun.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables work best for the turkey feathers?
Bright, colorful vegetables such as cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, baby carrots, cucumber slices, celery sticks, and broccoli florets create an appealing and vibrant feather effect.
- → How do you attach the turkey’s facial features?
Use a small amount of cream cheese to secure cut pieces of red bell pepper for the wattle and beak as well as mozzarella balls or olives for the eyes onto the cheese body.
- → Can this platter be adapted for dietary restrictions?
Yes, substitute dairy-free cheese for a vegan option and choose gluten-free crackers and dips to accommodate dietary needs.
- → Is preparation complicated or time-consuming?
This platter is quick and easy to assemble, requiring about 30 minutes with no cooking needed, making it ideal for last-minute celebrations.
- → What beverages pair well with this appetizer tray?
Light white wines or sparkling cider complement the fresh flavors and colorful presentation nicely.