Wash and dry all your vegetables thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into even rounds, cut bell peppers into thin strips, separate the broccoli florets, and prep any optional celery or tomatoes you’d like to use. Having everything ready before you assemble the platter makes the display quick and enjoyable.

Set a small glass bowl filled with ranch in the center of your round platter. This will be the anchor point for your turkey design and helps guide the shape of your feather fan.

Starting just outside the dip bowl, arrange a row of cucumber slices in a wide arc. Follow with a row of tri-colored bell pepper strips, then a layer of baby carrots, and another arc of broccoli florets. Keep building outward, alternating colors and textures to give your fan that full turkey-feather look. If you’re using celery or tomatoes, tuck them in where the colors need a little variety or where the platter needs more shape.

Cut the bottom half of a red bell pepper and place it rounded-side up at the top edge of the ranch bowl. Add two candy eyes near the center. For the gobbler, cut a small slice of yellow bell pepper and position it just below the eyes. This gives your veggie turkey its charming little personality and makes the appetizer feel festive and fun.

Give the edges a quick tidy so everything feels neat and intentional. If you’re serving immediately, place the platter straight on your appetizer table. If prepping ahead, cover it loosely and refrigerate until your guests arrive.