Garden Vegetable Platter
A vibrant vegetable platter featuring a creamy, herb-infused dip made from spinach, parsley, and Neufchatel cheese, perfect for healthy snacking or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring to boil spinach, parsley, water, green onions, and tarragon in a small saucepan.
- Reduce heat and cover; simmer for 1 minute.
- Drain the mixture thoroughly.
- Place the drained mixture and all remaining ingredients in a blender or food processor.
- Cover and blend until smooth.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve with assorted vegetable dippers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or a splash of buttermilk. If you're out of tarragon, dill or basil can serve as excellent substitutes. Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor, so feel free to experiment. This dip also works well with various vegetables; try it with carrots, bell peppers, or even alongside Beet And Jello Salad for a colorful spread.
Serving Suggestions
This garden vegetable platter is perfect for gatherings, served with a variety of dippers like celery sticks, cherry tomatoes, and radishes. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light salad or a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. It also makes a refreshing addition to a summer picnic or barbecue, complementing dishes like Steak And Potato Kabobs perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld over time, enhancing the taste. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change. When ready to serve again, give it a good stir, and if needed, add a splash of water to regain a smoother consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garden Vegetable Platter contains roughly 101 calories, with 9g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dip ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dip a day in advance. Just blend the ingredients, store in the refrigerator, and it will be ready to serve when you need it. This allows the flavors to develop further, making it even more delicious.
What vegetables should I use for dipping?
You can use any fresh vegetables that you enjoy! Popular choices include carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. For a fun twist, try serving with some crunchy radishes or snap peas, which add a nice contrast to the creamy dip.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
The original recipe contains cream cheese; however, you can easily make it vegan by substituting with a plant-based cream cheese or silken tofu blended until smooth. This way, you can enjoy a delicious dip that fits vegan recipes and is still packed with flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).