Veggie Tray

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Veggie Tray is incredibly versatile, customizable, and requires minimal preparation. It’s not only healthy but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for parties or get-togethers. The freshness of the veggies combined with a selection of delicious dips like ranch or hummus makes this tray a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. It’s a perfect way to introduce more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup celery stalks
• 1 cup cucumbers, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup broccoli, diced into small pieces
• 1 cup cauliflower, diced into small pieces
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 2-3 assorted dips (ranch, hummus, etc.)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the vegetables:
   • Slice the cucumbers into rounds.
   • Slice the bell peppers into strips.
   • Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small, bite-sized florets.
   • Trim the celery stalks and cut them into sticks.
   • Leave the baby carrots whole.
   • Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes.
2. Arrange the veggies:
   • On a large platter or tray, arrange the veggies in separate sections for a visually appealing presentation. You can place the carrots, celery, cucumbers, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers next to each other, making sure each vegetable group has its own space.
3. Serve with dips:
   • Place 2-3 small bowls of your favorite dips (like ranch, hummus, or guacamole) on the tray for dipping.
4. Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately, or refrigerate the tray until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Preparation time: 10-15 minutes
• Total time: 10-15 minutes

Variations

• Add olives: Black or green olives are a great addition to a veggie tray for a briny, salty bite.
• Include radishes: Sliced radishes add a peppery crunch and a pop of color.
• Different dips: In addition to ranch and hummus, you can add dips like tzatziki, guacamole, or a creamy spinach dip.
• Cheese platter: Add small cubes or slices of cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for an extra savory element.
• Pickled vegetables: Add a variety of pickled veggies like gherkins, pickled onions, or pickled beets for a tangy twist.

Storage/Reheating

A Veggie Tray should be served fresh for the best taste and texture. If you have leftovers, store the vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Keep the dips in separate containers to maintain their freshness. The veggies can lose their crispness over time, so it’s best to enjoy the tray soon after preparing it.

FAQs

Can I make this veggie tray in advance?

Yes, you can prep the vegetables a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge. It’s best to add the dips just before serving.

What other vegetables can I add to the tray?

You can add other vegetables such as sliced zucchini, sugar snap peas, cherry bell peppers, asparagus, or even fresh green beans for more variety.

Can I use store-bought dips?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought dips like ranch, hummus, or guacamole work great. You can also buy pre-made veggie dips or salsa.

How long will the veggies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the vegetables will stay fresh in the fridge for 1-2 days. Keep them in a cool area before serving to maintain their crispness.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are ideal for a veggie tray, but if you must use frozen vegetables, make sure to thaw them and drain any excess water. Note that frozen vegetables may not have the same crispness as fresh ones.

What dips pair best with a veggie tray?

Ranch, hummus, guacamole, and tzatziki are all great options. For a spicy kick, try adding a sriracha or chipotle mayo dip.

Can I serve this veggie tray at a picnic?

Yes! A veggie tray is an excellent choice for a picnic. Just make sure to keep it chilled, and don’t forget the dips in small containers for easy serving.

How can I make the veggie tray more colorful?

Mix and match vegetables with different colors—use red, yellow, and orange bell peppers, purple carrots, or even purple cabbage to add more variety and vibrance.

Can I include fruit on the veggie tray?

Yes, you can add fruits like grapes, strawberries, or apple slices to the tray for a sweet contrast to the savory veggies.

Can I use a platter instead of a tray?

Yes, you can use any large serving dish, such as a platter, cutting board, or shallow bowl, depending on what you have available.

Conclusion

A Veggie Tray is an easy, healthy, and visually appealing option for snacking or serving at your next gathering. With fresh, crunchy vegetables and an assortment of dips, this colorful tray provides a fun and nutritious way to enjoy a variety of flavors. Customize it to your taste and watch it quickly disappear—this veggie tray is sure to be a hit at any event!

Print