Save A whimsical and healthy appetizer featuring crisp vegetables arranged as a snowman, served with a creamy herb dip—perfect for festive gatherings and kids parties.
This appetizer is always a hit at our holiday parties because it combines creativity with fresh flavors.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large cauliflower head (cut into florets), 1 large cucumber, 2 medium carrots (peeled), 1 small red bell pepper, 1 small yellow bell pepper, 6 cherry tomatoes, 1 black olive
- Dip: 200 g (7 oz) Greek yogurt or sour cream, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp fresh chives or dill (finely chopped), 1 garlic clove (minced), Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables:
- Slice the cucumber into 1 cm rounds. Cut one carrot into sticks for snowman arms, and use a peeler to cut thin ribbons from the other carrot for the scarf. Slice bell peppers into small strips and pieces for the hat, buttons, and scarf accent. Slice the black olive into thin rounds for the eyes and mouth.
- Arrange the snowman:
- On a large platter, assemble three cauliflower florets in increasing size vertically to form the snowmans body. Use cucumber rounds for the snow at the base. Add carrot sticks for arms, and carrot ribbons for the scarf around the neck. Use black olive slices for eyes and mouth, a small carrot piece for the nose, and bell pepper strips to create a hat and buttons. Place cherry tomatoes and remaining vegetables around the snowman as extra crudités.
- Prepare the dip:
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, chives or dill, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve:
- Place the dip in a small bowl next to or within the platter for dipping.
Save Preparing this together brings smiles and laughter around our table every winter.
Variations
Try adding other vegetables such as radishes, broccoli, or celery for variety and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve immediately to maintain the best texture and enjoy with friends and family.
Storage
Store leftover dip in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep vegetables separate to prevent sogginess.
Save This crisp and creative appetizer is sure to brighten any celebration.
Recipe Guide
- → What vegetables are used to create the snowman?
Cauliflower florets form the body, cucumber rounds create the base, carrot sticks and ribbons serve as arms and scarf, bell peppers form the hat and buttons, cherry tomatoes and black olive slices complete the features.
- → How is the creamy dip prepared?
The dip combines Greek yogurt or sour cream with mayonnaise, lemon juice, finely chopped chives or dill, minced garlic, then seasoned with salt and pepper.
- → Can this dish be made vegan?
Yes, substitute the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives to keep it vegan without compromising flavor.
- → What tools are needed for assembling the vegetables?
A sharp knife, vegetable peeler, large serving platter, small mixing bowl, and spoon are recommended for precise cutting and assembly.
- → How should this appetizer be served for best freshness?
Serve immediately after assembling to maintain crispness and vibrant colors of the vegetables.
- → Are there any allergen concerns to be aware of?
The dip contains dairy (Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise) and may contain eggs via mayonnaise. Check ingredient labels if allergens are a concern.