Save It 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!
This was a favorite at our holiday party and always gets compliments for both taste and presentation
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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)
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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 It This recipe brings the family together every holiday season to share laughs and festive cheer
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Notes
For a lighter dip substitute plain Greek yogurt for sour cream. Use any colorful vegetables you prefer radishes, snap peas, or yellow peppers work well. Make it vegan by using dairy-free cream cheese and cheese.
Required Tools
Medium mixing bowl, Spoon or spatula, Large serving platter, Knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 170, Total Fat 12 g, Carbohydrates 9 g, Protein 4 g per serving
Save It 
This simple yet stunning appetizer is sure to brighten any holiday table
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What ingredients give the dip its creamy texture?
The creamy texture comes from a blend of softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese, combined with fresh herbs and seasonings.
- → Can I prepare this dip platter ahead of time?
Yes, the dip can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving to maintain freshness and consistency.
- → What vegetables work best for decorating the tree shape?
Broccoli florets mimic pine needles well, while cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red bell pepper strips, and carrot slices add colorful ornament-like accents.
- → Is there a gluten-free option for the crunchy elements?
Gluten-free crackers or pretzel sticks can be used to ensure the platter remains suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → How can I lighten the dip without losing flavor?
Substituting plain Greek yogurt for sour cream creates a lighter dip while maintaining a creamy and tangy flavor.
- → Can this platter be adapted for vegan diets?
Yes, replace cream cheese and cheddar with dairy-free alternatives to create a vegan-friendly version of the dip.
