Save A festive and colorful appetizer featuring a creamy herb dip surrounded by fresh vegetables and crackers, arranged in the shape of a Christmas tree. Perfect for holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
- Dip: 1 cup (225 g) cream cheese, softened, 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream, 1/2 cup (60 g) finely shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped, 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill), 1 garlic clove, minced, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetables: 1 cup broccoli florets, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/2 cup cucumber slices, 1/2 cup baby carrots, sliced lengthwise, 1/4 cup red bell pepper strips
- Extras: 1/2 cup small pretzel sticks or gluten free crackers, 1/4 cup pitted black olives (for decoration)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, chives, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Step 2:
- On a large rectangular platter, spread the dip in a triangle, forming the shape of a Christmas tree (about 12 inches tall).
- Step 3:
- Arrange broccoli florets over the dip to mimic pine needles.
- Step 4:
- Decorate the tree with cherry tomato halves, cucumber slices, and red bell pepper strips as ornaments.
- Step 5:
- Place carrot slices at the base as the tree trunk.
- Step 6:
- Add pretzel sticks or crackers around the edge as gifts or for dipping.
- Step 7:
- Use black olives to create a star at the top or additional decorations as desired.
- Step 8:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Save Required Tools
Medium mixing bowl, Spoon or spatula, Large serving platter, Knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar). For gluten free, use gluten free crackers instead of pretzel sticks. Check ingredient labels for hidden allergens if serving guests with sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 170, Total Fat: 12 g, Carbohydrates: 9 g, Protein: 4 g
Save This colorful Christmas tree dip platter is a festive and healthy addition to your holiday table ready in just 20 minutes.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I shape the dip into the Christmas tree?
Spread the creamy dip in a large triangular form on a rectangular platter to mimic the shape of a Christmas tree before arranging vegetables on top.
- → Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary needs?
Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese for a vegan version, or substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option.
- → What vegetables work best for decoration?
Broccoli florets mimic pine needles well, while cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red bell peppers, and baby carrots create colorful ornaments and the trunk.
- → How long can the platter be prepared ahead?
Prepare the dip and assemble the platter up to 2 hours in advance, storing it refrigerated until serving.
- → Are gluten-free options available for the dippers?
Yes, replace pretzel sticks with gluten-free crackers to accommodate gluten sensitivities.