Bonfire Warmth Centerpiece (Printable Version)

Vertical carrot and pepper sticks with mandarins create a warm, vibrant table arrangement.

# Needed Ingredients:

→ Vegetables & Fruit

01 - 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into long thin sticks
02 - 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
03 - 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
04 - 3 mandarins, peeled and segmented

→ Garnishes

05 - Fresh parsley or mint sprigs
06 - 1 small handful pomegranate seeds (optional)

→ Dip (optional)

07 - 1/2 cup hummus or yogurt-based dip for serving on the side

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Cut carrots, yellow and red bell peppers into long, thin sticks or strips to resemble flames.
02 - On a round, flat serving plate, arrange the carrot sticks vertically in the center, leaning them together like a teepee to form the base structure.
03 - Layer yellow and red pepper strips among the carrots, mixing colors to create a flickering flame effect.
04 - Tuck mandarin segments at various heights and around the base to add dimension and a warm orange glow.
05 - Scatter fresh parsley or mint sprigs around the base to resemble green ash or embers.
06 - Optionally, sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the arrangement for added visual sparkle.
07 - Serve with a small bowl of hummus or yogurt-based dip on the side if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It's a showstopper that requires zero cooking—just your knife skills and creativity
  • Everyone at the table becomes engaged, treating it like an edible art installation rather than a typical appetizer
  • Perfect for any diet, naturally vegan and gluten-free, so no one feels left out
  • Takes just 20 minutes to create something that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen
02 -
  • The carrot sticks must be relatively uniform in thickness, or they won't lean evenly. I learned this the hard way when my bonfire kept collapsing
  • Moisture is the enemy—dry your cut vegetables thoroughly with paper towels before arranging, or they'll become slippery and slide around
  • Don't prep this more than 2 hours ahead. The cut vegetables will start weeping moisture and losing their crispness, which affects both appearance and texture
03 -
  • Use a shallow bowl or plate with a slight rim—it helps contain any rolling segments and creates a natural frame for your arrangement
  • The secret to vertical stability is starting with 3-4 carrot sticks positioned at slightly different angles, then building from there. Each addition locks the previous one in place
  • If you want extra visual pop without added prep, use both orange and yellow carrots for more color variation within your base flames
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