How should the vegetables be prepared?

Peel and cut carrots and parsnips into 4-inch sticks; slice bell peppers into strips and zucchini into sticks to ensure even roasting.

What herbs are used in the marinade?

A blend of dried thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper combined with olive oil and balsamic vinegar creates a flavorful marinade.

Yes, feta can be omitted or replaced with a plant-based alternative for a vegan version.

Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway to achieve tender caramelized vegetables.

Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally garnished with fresh parsley and paired with dips like yogurt-herb or hummus.

A festive, fun appetizer featuring colorful roasted vegetables arranged to resemble sleigh rails—perfect for holiday gatherings.

This is a family favorite during the holidays that always sparks conversation and cheer.

Vegetables: 2 medium carrots peeled and cut into 4-inch sticks, 1 red bell pepper cut into strips, 1 yellow bell pepper cut into strips, 1 small zucchini cut into 4-inch sticks, 1 small parsnip peeled and cut into 4-inch sticks
Marinade: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp balsamic vinegar, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp dried rosemary, 1/2 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
Garnish: 2 tbsp crumbled feta cheese (optional), 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
Step 3:: Add the carrot, bell pepper, zucchini, and parsnip sticks to the bowl. Toss well to coat all the vegetables evenly.
Step 4:: Arrange the vegetable sticks on the prepared baking sheet in parallel pairs to resemble sleigh rails, alternating colors for a festive look.
Step 5:: Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway, until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 6:: Transfer the roasted veggie rails to a serving platter. Sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and fresh parsley. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoying this dish together has become a heartwarming tradition for our family every holiday season.

Chefs knife, Cutting board, Baking sheet, Parchment paper, Mixing bowl, Tongs or spatula

Contains dairy (feta cheese). Omit or substitute for a dairy-free alternative if necessary.

Calories 115, Total Fat 7 g, Carbohydrates 12 g, Protein 2 g per serving

This festive appetizer is sure to brighten your holiday table and impress your guests.

→ How should the vegetables be prepared?: Peel and cut carrots and parsnips into 4-inch sticks; slice bell peppers into strips and zucchini into sticks to ensure even roasting.
→ What herbs are used in the marinade?: A blend of dried thyme, rosemary, sea salt, and black pepper combined with olive oil and balsamic vinegar creates a flavorful marinade.
→ Can the feta cheese be substituted?: Yes, feta can be omitted or replaced with a plant-based alternative for a vegan version.
→ What is the ideal roasting temperature and time?: Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway to achieve tender caramelized vegetables.
→ How can this dish be served?: Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally garnished with fresh parsley and paired with dips like yogurt-herb or hummus.