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 always delights my family at picnics and 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.
Pin it Assembling this platter together creates fun family memories and encourages kids to enjoy healthy eating.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, toothpicks, large serving platter, small spoon or toothpick for balsamic glaze
Additional Serving Suggestions
Drizzle with olive oil or a lemon-herb vinaigrette before serving. Serve with crackers or pita chips.
Dietary Notes
Substitute vegan cheese to make the platter fully plant-based.
Pin it This colorful platter is not only a delicious appetizer but a fun way to get everyone involved in the kitchen.
Common Questions
- → How do I create the ladybug shapes on the platter?
Slice cherry tomatoes in half for the ladybug bodies, then add halved black olives on top as heads. Use toothpicks to secure the pieces together and balsamic glaze or sesame seeds for spots.
- → Can this platter be made vegan?
Yes, simply substitute the mozzarella balls with a vegan cheese alternative to keep it plant-based and flavorful.
- → What vegetables work best as a base for the garden effect?
Cucumber rounds provide a fresh, sturdy base while baby spinach and broccoli florets add lush greenery and texture.
- → How should I serve this platter at parties?
Arrange it on a large serving tray and remove toothpicks before serving. It pairs well with crackers or pita chips for added crunch.
- → Are there any allergen considerations to keep in mind?
It contains dairy from mozzarella and olives may be processed near nuts. Check labels carefully if allergies are a concern.
- → What garnishes enhance the flavor and presentation?
Fresh chives, black sesame seeds, and balsamic glaze add visual contrast and subtle flavor notes to the platter.