Save A vibrant, festive platter featuring a creamy dip surrounded by a decorative arrangement of cucumbers and tomatoes in the shape of a holiday tree—perfect for parties or gatherings.
I enjoy making this dip platter every holiday season as it brings a cheerful centerpiece to the table and encourages guests to snack healthily.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced, 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved, 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced (for star and decoration), Fresh parsley or dill sprigs, for garnish
- Dip: 1 cup cream cheese, softened, ½ cup sour cream, 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, dill, chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Transfer the dip to a small bowl and place in the center or bottom of a large serving platter.
- Step 2:
- Arrange cucumber slices in rows above the dip bowl to form the shape of a tree, slightly overlapping each slice.
- Step 3:
- Place halved cherry tomatoes in between the cucumber rows as ornaments.
- Step 4:
- Use yellow bell pepper slices to create a star at the top of the tree and additional decorative accents.
- Step 5:
- Garnish the branches with fresh parsley or dill sprigs for a festive look.
- Step 6:
- Serve chilled, allowing guests to dip vegetables into the creamy dip.
Save This dish always brings joy to my family gatherings and is a fun way to sneak veggies into kids' snacks.
Required Tools
Large serving platter, Mixing bowl, Knife, Cutting board, Small bowl (for dip), Spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream). Gluten-free (double-check dip ingredients for cross-contamination). Not suitable for those with milk allergies. Always verify ingredient labels if preparing for people with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 110 per serving, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 7 g, Protein: 3 g
Save This platter makes a delightful and healthy centerpiece for any party with minimal effort.
Recipe FAQ
- → What ingredients create the creamy base?
The creamy base is made from softened cream cheese, sour cream, fresh dill, chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- → How are the cucumbers and tomatoes arranged?
Cucumber slices are positioned in rows forming a tree shape, with cherry tomatoes placed between as decorative accents.
- → Can this platter accommodate dietary restrictions?
It's vegetarian and gluten-free, but contains dairy, so it's not suitable for milk allergies.
- → What alternatives can I use to lighten the creamy base?
Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter version while maintaining creamy texture.
- → How is the star decoration made?
Slices of yellow bell pepper are shaped and placed atop the arrangement to resemble a star.
- → What garnishes enhance the platter's appearance?
Fresh parsley or dill sprigs are used to garnish the branches, adding color and aroma.