Save to Pinterest A whimsical, charming platter featuring fresh vegetables artfully arranged to resemble turtles&mdashperfect for parties, kids, or adding fun to any appetizer spread. Served with a creamy herb dip.
This recipe was a hit at our last family gathering&mdashthe kids couldn't get enough of making their own turtle snacks.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large cucumber, 1 green bell pepper, 8 cherry tomatoes, 1 small zucchini, 12 baby carrots, 1 cup broccoli florets, 1 cup snap peas
- Herb Dip: 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup sour cream, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, 1 clove garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste
- Garnishes & Assembly: 8 black olive slices (for eyes), 8 toothpicks
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Slice the cucumber into 1/2-inch thick rounds&mdashthese will form the turtle shells.
- Step 2:
- Cut the green bell pepper and zucchini into small wedges for legs and heads.
- Step 3:
- Attach four vegetable wedges around each cucumber round with toothpicks to create legs, and a smaller wedge for the head.
- Step 4:
- Use a dab of yogurt dip to glue olive slices to the heads for eyes.
- Step 5:
- Arrange cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, broccoli, and snap peas around the turtles as a colorful crudités platter.
- Step 6:
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, sour cream, dill, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the herb dip. Mix well.
- Step 7:
- Serve the vegetable turtles with the herb dip on the side.
Save to Pinterest This delightful platter always brings smiles and encourages healthy eating habits in our family gatherings.
Required Tools
Sharp knife, cutting board, toothpicks, small serving bowl
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Greek yogurt, sour cream). Check all packaged ingredients for potential allergens if in doubt.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 80, Total Fat: 2 g, Carbohydrates: 13 g, Protein: 4 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This creative crudité is a perfect blend of fun and nutrition anyone can enjoy.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I assemble the turtle shapes?
Slice cucumbers into rounds for shells, then attach wedges of bell pepper and zucchini around each round for legs and a head using toothpicks. Add olive slices as eyes with a bit of herb dip as glue.
- → Can I substitute ingredients in the herb dip?
Yes, you can swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives to make the dip vegan-friendly while keeping the fresh herb flavors intact.
- → What vegetables can I add for extra variety?
Adding radishes, celery sticks, or other crunchy veggies enhances color and texture, making the platter more vibrant and flavorful.
- → How long does the platter stay fresh?
Keep vegetables chilled and serve within a few hours for optimal freshness and crispness. Prepare the herb dip just before serving for best taste.
- → Is this platter suitable for specific dietary needs?
Yes, it is gluten-free and vegetarian. Modifications can make the dip vegan by using non-dairy yogurt alternatives.