Low-Carb Christmas Tree Appetizer
A stunning edible Christmas tree made with low-carb veggies, herbed cream cheese, and mozzarella “snow.” It’s crunchy, creamy, festive, and guilt-free — perfect for Christmas gatherings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Tree Base
1 large head broccoli
OR combination of broccoli + cucumber slices
1 small zucchini
Creamy Low-Carb Spread
1 cup cream cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella
¼ cup grated parmesan
1 tbsp olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
Salt & black pepper to taste
Decorations
Cherry tomatoes
Red bell pepper, diced
Yellow bell pepper, diced
Black olives, sliced
Extra parmesan
Instructions
1. Prepare the Broccoli
Steam broccoli for 2–3 minutes until just tender but bright green
OR keep raw for extra crunch
Pat dry completely
2. Make the Creamy Spread
Mix cream cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Build the Christmas Tree
On a large serving platter, spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture in a triangle/tree shape.
Arrange broccoli florets tightly over the cheese to form the tree.
Use zucchini or cucumber slices to fill gaps if needed.
4. Decorate
Add cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives as ornaments
Sprinkle parmesan on top for a “snow” effect
Optional: add a star made from cheese or yellow pepper
5. Optional Warm Version
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes until cheese melts slightly (do not overbake).
Serving Ideas
Serve with keto crackers
Pair with grilled chicken or salmon
Add low-carb dip like tzatziki or garlic yogurt
Tips
For extra protein, add chopped grilled chicken to the cheese layer
Make it fully keto by skipping tomatoes
Add nuts (almonds/walnuts) for crunch
Assemble just before serving for best color
Nutritional Information
Calories: 140
Carbs: 4 g
Protein: 7 g
Fat: 10 g