Introduction
Get ready to wow your guests at your next holiday gathering with these delightful Deviled Egg Christmas Trees! This fun and festive recipe takes the classic deviled egg to a new level, turning your appetizer into a stunning centerpiece. Rich and creamy yolk filling meets the vibrant colors of the season, creating bite-sized wonders that not only taste great but will also bring a smile to everyone’s face. Perfect for holiday parties, family dinners, or cozy get-togethers, these deviled egg trees are sure to become a cherished addition to your festive traditions.
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
- Start by placing the eggs in a pot and 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.
- After the timer goes off, carefully transfer the eggs to an ice bath. Allow them to cool completely, which will make peeling a breeze.
- Once cooled, gently peel the eggs and slice each one in half lengthwise. Carefully remove the yolks and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Using a fork, mash the yolks to a fine consistency, then mix in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Divide the yolk mixture into two bowls. Add green food coloring to one bowl, a few drops at a time, until you achieve your desired vibrant green hue.
- Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill the egg whites with the green yolk mixture, creating festive tree shapes.
- Now it’s time to decorate! Arrange the chopped celery, red bell pepper, and green onions around the green egg filling to craft garlands and ornaments for your trees.
- Top each tree with a slice of pimento-stuffed olive, simulating ornaments, and give a gentle sprinkle of fresh parsley for a festive finishing touch.
- Carefully arrange your festive egg creations on a serving platter and chill them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to delight your guests.
Notes or Tips
- For perfectly cooked eggs, consider using older eggs as they tend to peel more easily.
- Get creative! You can use different colors of food coloring for the yolk filling or add other toppings like bacon bits or chopped herbs for extra flavor.
- These deviled egg trees can be made a few hours in advance, making them a great make-ahead option for busy holiday entertaining.
Cooking Techniques
Boiling eggs properly is essential for this recipe. Start with cold water, bring it to a boil, and then allow the eggs to sit off the heat. This method helps prevent the yolks from turning a greenish color and ensures they are cooked evenly. Using an ice bath is a great technique to stop the cooking process quickly, giving you perfectly tender egg whites.
FAQ
- Can I use different fillings for the deviled eggs? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding ingredients like avocado, horseradish, or even curry powder.
- How long will these deviled egg trees last? They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just be sure to cover them tightly!
- Can I make these vegan? Yes, you can replace the eggs with firm tofu blended with vegan mayo and mustard, and use plant-based decorations.
Conclusion
This holiday season, bring a touch of whimsy and flavor to your table with these delightful Deviled Egg Christmas Trees. They are not only a feast for the eyes but also a delicious treat that captures the warmth and joy of the season. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking to spread some festive cheer, these appetizing trees will surely be a hit. Enjoy your cooking and happy holidays!