As the winter season transitions to spring, a unique centrepiece blending the essence of both periods is crafted. Root vegetables such as turnips, rutabaga, cabbage, and radicchio are transformed into artistic candleholders, complemented by pastel-colored taper candles symbolizing the upcoming lighter hues of spring. The resulting display exudes a charming mix of rustic and fresh elements, perfect for enhancing your upcoming gatherings.
For those planning ahead, it is recommended to store the prepared vegetables in a sealed container or resealable bag in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.
Materials Needed:
– Sharp knife
– 3 rutabagas
– Apple corer
– 6 taper candles in various colors (e.g., cranberry, pink, lavender)
– 9 turnips of different sizes
– Bamboo skewers
– 1 head of purple cabbage
– 3 round purple radicchios
Instructions:
1. Begin by ensuring the rutabaga sits level on a surface by slicing a small piece off the bottom with a sharp knife. Use an apple corer to create a 1-inch hole in the top of the rutabaga for inserting a taper candle. If the hole is larger than the candle width, wrap a small piece of radicchio or cabbage leaf around the base before insertion.
2. Prepare another rutabaga by trimming small sections from the top and bottom for stability. Use the apple corer to carve out a 1-inch chunk from a turnip’s side. To construct a two-tiered candleholder, insert a bamboo skewer into the turnip and secure it into the top of the rutabaga. Place a taper candle in the turnip.
3. Carve out a 1-inch hole from the top of another turnip using the apple corer. For a playful touch, consider an off-center hole. Stack two turnips by inserting a bamboo skewer from the bottom of one turnip into the top of another. Place a taper candle in the top turnip.
4. Cut the cabbage in half and create a flat base by slicing a piece off the rounded side. Use the apple corer to make a 1-inch hole in the cabbage and insert a candle. For added flair, attach a small turnip next to the candle using a skewer.
5. For the radicchio candleholders, halve the radicchio and core out the center with an apple corer. Adjust the sides for stability and insert candles. Gently peel back the leaves to create a petal-like appearance.
6. Arrange the vegetable candleholders along your table’s center and fill in the gaps with additional vegetables for a natural setting. Experiment with stacking and skewering for varied heights and textures.
7. Before guests arrive, lightly mist the vegetables with water to enhance their natural shine.
This collaboration is brought to you by the CBC Creator Network.