Pin It A festive, eye-catching vegetable platter arranged in the shape of holly leaves, perfect for holiday gatherings. Fresh, crunchy veggies are paired with a creamy dip for a healthy and beautiful appetizer.
Fresh crunchy veggies combined with a creamy dip make this one of my favorite festive snacks to bring to parties.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large head broccoli, cut into small florets, 1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds, 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips, 1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed, 1 cup green grapes (optional for color and shape), 6 8 cherry tomatoes (for holly berries), 1 small red bell pepper, cut into small circles or wedges (for additional berry effect)
- Dip: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Garnish (Optional): Fresh parsley sprigs
Instructions
- Step 1:
- On a large platter or board, sketch a holly leaf shape lightly with a pencil on parchment or visualize the outline.
- Step 2:
- Arrange broccoli florets and sugar snap peas to form the borders of the holly leaves.
- Step 3:
- Fill in the leaf shape with cucumber rounds and green bell pepper strips, layering for texture and color.
- Step 4:
- Place cherry tomatoes and red bell pepper pieces in clusters at strategic points to mimic holly berries.
- Step 5:
- Add green grapes if desired for extra dimension and sweetness.
- Step 6:
- In a medium bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, salt and pepper until smooth. Transfer to a small serving bowl and place it at the corner or center of the board.
- Step 7:
- Garnish with parsley sprigs for additional greenery.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve.
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This recipe brings joy at family gatherings and always sparks compliments for its festive design and fresh flavors.
Notes
For extra crunch add celery or snap peas. Swap Greek yogurt for dairy-free yogurt for a vegan dip. Pair with whole-grain crackers or pita chips alongside the veggies. To make ahead prep veggies and dip separately then assemble just before serving.
Required Tools
Large serving board or platter. Sharp knife. Cutting board. Small mixing bowl. Serving bowl for dip.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Greek yogurt mayonnaise). Mayonnaise may contain eggs. Check individual labels for gluten egg or dairy if serving to those with allergies.
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This Holly Leaf Veggie Board is a healthy festive appetizer that is easy to make and a hit at parties.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How do I create the holly leaf shape on the platter?
Lightly sketch the holly leaf outline on parchment or visualize it directly on a large serving board. Arrange broccoli and snap peas along the borders to form the leaf edges, then fill the center with cucumber rounds and bell pepper strips.
- → Can I substitute any vegetables in this arrangement?
Yes, celery or extra snap peas can add crunch. You can also include green grapes for added sweetness and dimension without changing the overall look.
- → What is the base of the creamy dip served with the veggies?
The dip combines Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a tangy and herbaceous complement to the vegetables.
- → How should I prepare the dip for different dietary needs?
Replace Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt to make the dip vegan-friendly. Adjust seasoning as needed to maintain flavor balance.
- → What is the best way to serve and store this veggie board?
Serve immediately for freshest texture. If preparing ahead, keep veggies and dip separate; assemble the board shortly before serving. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate if needed.
- → Are there any recommended accompaniments for this veggie board?
Whole-grain crackers or pita chips pair well, adding snackable options alongside the fresh vegetables and dip.