Introduction
Get ready to dazzle your holiday guests with a delightful twist on a classic appetizer: Deviled Egg Christmas Trees! These charming little trees are not only festive in appearance, but they also pack a punch of flavor. With their creamy filling adorned with vibrant garnishes, they bring a touch of whimsy to any holiday gathering. Perfect for parties or family celebrations, these deviled egg trees will surely become a beloved tradition!
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green food coloring
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 8 slices of pimento-stuffed olives, for ornaments
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 12 deviled egg trees
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by placing the eggs in a pot, covering them with water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, remove the pot from heat, cover it, and let the eggs sit for 12 minutes.
- Transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool completely, stopping the cooking process and making them easier to peel.
- Once cool, peel the eggs and slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Mash the yolks with a fork and then mix in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
- Divide this delicious mixture into two bowls. Add a few drops of green food coloring to one bowl until you achieve your desired festive shade of green.
- Using a piping bag or spoon, carefully fill the hollowed-out egg whites with the green yolk mixture, crafting them into lovely tree shapes.
- Decorate your tree with the chopped celery, red bell pepper, and green onions, arranging them to mimic garlands and ornaments.
- Place the slices of olives on top of the trees for stunning ornaments and finish with a sprig of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
- Carefully arrange the deviled egg trees on a serving platter and chill them until you’re ready to impress your guests!
Notes or Tips
For a delightful crunch, consider adding some finely chopped nuts or crispy bacon bits to the yolk mixture. If you’re feeling extra festive, you can sprinkle edible glitter on top for a sparkling effect! Make sure to serve these little delights chilled for the best flavor and presentation.
Cooking Techniques
Boiling eggs can be tricky, but using the ice bath method ensures they peel easily and have a perfectly cooked yolk. For piping, any zip-top bag can be repurposed by cutting off the corner to create a makeshift piping bag. This is a fun way to involve kids in the kitchen as they help decorate the trees!
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Deviled Egg Christmas Trees can be made a day in advance. Just keep them in the refrigerator and cover them to maintain freshness.
What if I don’t have green food coloring? You can create a natural green color by using mashed avocado or adding finely chopped spinach to the yolk mixture, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Conclusion
These Deviled Egg Christmas Trees are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. With their creamy, flavorful filling and delightful decorations, they perfectly embody the spirit of the season. Whip up a batch and watch them disappear as your friends and family rave about their festive charm and taste. Happy cooking and enjoy your celebrations!