Pin It 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 created this dip platter for a holiday party and it was a huge hit with guests of all ages, combining taste and festive presentation.
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.
Pin It This platter became a family favorite, bringing everyone together over wholesome, colorful snacks at every gathering.
Preparation Tips
Use a sharp knife to slice cucumbers thinly and uniformly to make arranging easier and more visually appealing.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dip platter with a crisp white wine or sparkling water infused with lemon slices for a refreshingly balanced appetizer.
Variations
Try adding other vegetables like radishes or baby carrots for extra color and texture to the platter.
Pin It This festive dip platter is a delightful way to add color and flavor to any party table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep cucumber slices fresh and crisp?
Store cucumber slices in cold water or cover tightly with plastic wrap to maintain moisture and crispness until serving.
- → Can I substitute sour cream in the dip?
Yes, Greek yogurt works well as a lighter alternative, adding tanginess and a creamy texture.
- → What herbs enhance the dip's flavor?
Fresh dill and chives offer a bright, aromatic quality that complements the creamy base perfectly.
- → How to arrange tomatoes for a balanced look?
Place halved cherry tomatoes evenly between cucumber rows to mimic ornaments and add vibrant color contrast.
- → What is the purpose of the yellow bell pepper star?
The star-shaped yellow bell pepper slice adds festive decoration and a sweet, crisp bite atop the tree arrangement.
- → Is this dip suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the dip and vegetables are naturally gluten-free, but verify cream cheese and sour cream brands to ensure no cross-contamination.