Save 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.
A delightful recipe that always brings smiles at family gatherings and is perfect for healthy snacking anytime.
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
- Slice Shells:
- Slice the cucumber into 1/2-inch thick rounds&mdashthese will form the turtle shells.
- Prepare Legs and Heads:
- Cut the green bell pepper and zucchini into small wedges for legs and heads.
- Assemble Turtles:
- Attach four vegetable wedges around each cucumber round with toothpicks to create legs, and a smaller wedge for the head.
- Add Eyes:
- Use a dab of yogurt dip to glue olive slices to the heads for eyes.
- Arrange Platter:
- Arrange cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, broccoli, and snap peas around the turtles as a colorful crudités platter.
- Make Herb Dip:
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, sour cream, dill, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the herb dip. Mix well.
- Serve:
- Serve the vegetable turtles with the herb dip on the side.
Save This recipe always makes family gatherings more fun as kids love to help assemble their turtle snacks.
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
Per serving: 80 calories, 2 g total fat, 13 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein
Save Enjoy this charming appetizer as a healthy, fun addition to any party or snack time.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I create the turtle shapes with vegetables?
Slice cucumbers into rounds for shells, use bell pepper and zucchini wedges for legs and heads, then attach with toothpicks. Olive slices serve as eyes.
- → What ingredients are used in the herb dip?
The dip combines Greek yogurt, sour cream, fresh dill, parsley, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for a creamy, flavorful complement.
- → Can this platter accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, it's vegetarian and gluten-free. For vegan options, substitute Greek yogurt and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
- → What are some suitable garnishes for the vegetables?
Use black olive slices for turtle eyes and arrange colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, baby carrots, broccoli, and snap peas around the turtles to create an appealing platter.
- → How long does it take to prepare this platter?
Preparation takes about 25 minutes, with no cooking required, making it a quick and easy appetizer option.