Save A whimsical and vibrant vegetable platter designed to resemble a garden carrot patch, complete with a creamy soil dip. Perfect for spring gatherings, Easter, or healthy snacking.
I love serving this colorful veggie board at spring parties because it always delights guests and encourages healthy snacking.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 12–16 small carrots with tops, washed and trimmed, 1 cup sugar snap peas, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 cup radishes, halved, 1/2 cup cucumber slices, 1/2 cup bell pepper strips (orange, yellow, or red)
- Dip (Edible Soil): 1 cup hummus (classic or roasted garlic), 1/4 cup black olives, finely chopped, 2 tablespoons toasted panko breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed), 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Garnish: Fresh dill or parsley sprigs (for greens), Microgreens (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables:
- Wash, trim, and cut all vegetables as needed. Leave a bit of the carrot tops attached for a garden look.
- Mix Dip:
- In a small bowl, mix hummus with chopped black olives and spread it in a thick strip or oval on a large platter to resemble a garden bed.
- Add Soil Texture:
- Sprinkle toasted panko breadcrumbs and chopped parsley over the hummus to mimic soil.
- Arrange Carrots:
- Place the carrots vertically in the hummus soil, so they look as if growing from the ground.
- Fill Board:
- Fill out the rest of the board with sugar snap peas, cherry tomatoes, radish halves, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips.
- Garnish:
- Add fresh dill, parsley sprigs, or microgreens for extra color and the look of carrot tops.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately.
Save This veggie board always brings smiles to my family, especially when the kids recognize the 'garden' theme and eagerly dig in.
Required Tools
Large platter or board, Small mixing bowl, Knife and cutting board, Spoon or spatula
Allergen Information
Contains sesame (from hummus), gluten (from panko use gluten-free if needed). Double-check hummus and breadcrumb labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 110, Total Fat: 4 g, Carbohydrates: 16 g, Protein: 3 g (per serving)
Save This veggie board is a simple yet stunning appetizer that brightens up any gathering with freshness and creativity.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the carrots fresh and crisp?
Wash and trim the carrots just before serving. Keeping the tops attached helps retain moisture and adds freshness to the presentation.
- → Can I substitute the dip without losing the soil effect?
Yes, creamy dips like babaganoush or avocado spread can be used. Adding finely chopped olives and toasted breadcrumbs helps maintain the 'soil' texture.
- → What veggies work best besides carrots on the board?
Snap peas, cherry tomatoes, radishes, cucumber slices, and colorful bell peppers complement the carrots well and add variety.
- → How do I make the board suitable for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the dip topping and double-check all ingredients to avoid gluten contamination.
- → What garnishes enhance the carrot patch appearance?
Fresh dill, parsley sprigs, and microgreens mimic carrot tops and add vibrant green accents to the display.