Turn strawberries into an edible tree.
Create an edible centerpiece for your next party by building a strawberry tree. Edible centerpieces do double duty when you are entertaining by providing an hors d'oeuvre and decorating the table. Assemble the tree as close to the event as possible so it looks fresh, though it can be stored in the fridge for several hours if necessary. Use strawberries that are completely red and ripe to further extend the life of the centerpiece.
Instructions
1. Place a 12- to 18-inch-tall floral cone on top of a decorative platter. Secure the cone to the platter with florist's clay.
2. Cover the cone completely with large lettuce leaves, such as romaine or another loose-leaf lettuce. Pin the leaves in place with florist's pins or T-pins.
3. Insert a toothpick into the leaf end of each strawberry. Push approximately half the toothpick's length into the berry, but take care that the toothpick doesn't poke out the other end of the berry.
4. Push the toothpicks into the cone, beginning at the bottom. Place the largest strawberries at the bottom with the smaller ones toward the top. Place the berries as close together as possible. Completely cover the cone.
5. Attach parsley or another green garnish to the tree in any gaps between berries. Use the floral pins to attach the parsley sprigs.
Tags: lettuce leaves, with florist