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.
This platter has always been a hit at family 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.
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
Always verify cheese ingredients for vegetarians.
Nutritional Information
Calories 105 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 9 g Protein 5 g
Save Serve chilled and enjoy this fun and healthy appetizer that delights all ages.
Common Questions
- → How do I make the ladybug shapes on the platter?
Slice cherry tomatoes in half for the body, top with half black olives as heads, and add balsamic glaze or black sesame seeds for spots.
- → Can I prepare this platter in advance?
Yes, slice and arrange vegetables shortly before serving to keep them fresh, but assemble ladybugs close to serving time to maintain visual appeal.
- → What cheese works best for this platter?
Mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini) provide creamy contrast and pair well with fresh vegetables in this presentation.
- → Are there vegetarian or gluten-free options?
This platter is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences.
- → What garnishes enhance flavor and look?
Fresh chives add a grassy touch, balsamic glaze provides sweetness, and black sesame seeds contribute visual detail resembling ladybug spots.