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.
This veggie board has become my go-to festive snack for holiday parties because it always impresses guests and provides a fresh alternative to heavier appetizers.
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.
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together as we enjoy creating and sharing the veggie board during holidays.
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
Nutritional Information
Calories 70 Total Fat 3 g Carbohydrates 8 g Protein 3 g per serving
Pin It This holly leaf veggie board is a refreshing and festive addition to any holiday gathering sure to impress your guests.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the vegetables into holly leaves?
Start by outlining the holly leaf shape on your serving board, then arrange broccoli and snap peas along the edges for the leaf’s outline. Fill inside with cucumber rounds and green pepper strips to create texture and depth.
- → Can I substitute the dip ingredients for dietary needs?
Yes, swap Greek yogurt for dairy-free yogurt and use a vegan mayonnaise alternative to make the dip suitable for vegan or dairy-sensitive diets.
- → What vegetables are best for a crunchy texture?
Broccoli florets, sugar snap peas, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips provide a refreshing crunch that complements the creamy dip well.
- → How far ahead can I prepare this platter?
Prepare vegetables and dip separately up to a day in advance, then assemble the platter just before serving to maintain freshness and crispness.
- → What garnishes enhance the presentation?
Fresh parsley sprigs add a vibrant green touch, while clusters of cherry tomatoes and red bell pepper mimic holly berries, enhancing the festive look.