Save It A playful and healthy vegetable platter arranged to resemble a T-Rex fossil, perfect for kids parties or themed gatherings. Served with a creamy ranch dip.
This recipe is always a hit at our family gatherings and encourages kids to enjoy their veggies.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 large cucumber, 2 large carrots, 1 yellow bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, 1 small broccoli crown, 1 small cauliflower crown, 10 snap peas, 6 cherry tomatoes, 6 black olives (pitted, for eyes&claws), 1 bunch baby spinach leaves (for background)
- Dip: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly.
- Step 2:
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds for the T-Rexs vertebrae and tail bones.
- Step 3:
- Peel and cut the carrots into thin sticks for ribs and limbs.
- Step 4:
- Slice the bell peppers into strips for the jaw, spine, and claws.
- Step 5:
- Break the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets for skull, pelvis, and joints.
- Step 6:
- Arrange baby spinach leaves as a base layer on a large platter.
- Step 7:
- Assemble the vegetables on top to form a T-Rex fossil shape, using olives for eyes and claws, tomatoes for accent bones or fossilized eggs.
- Step 8:
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 9:
- Serve the dip alongside the platter.
Save It My kids love helping me arrange the vegetables into the dinosaur shape, making it a fun family activity.
Required Tools
Large serving platter, Sharp knife, Vegetable peeler, Small mixing bowl, Whisk or spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Greek yogurt, mayonnaise). Mayonnaise may contain eggs& check labels for egg-free options if needed. Always verify ingredients for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 75 per serving, Total Fat: 3 g, Carbohydrates: 9 g, Protein: 3 g
Save It This T-Rex fossil crudités platter is sure to be a memorable centerpiece and a healthy snack for any event.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What vegetables are used to create the T-Rex shape?
Cucumber slices form the vertebrae and tail, carrot sticks shape the ribs and limbs, bell peppers create jaws and claws, while broccoli and cauliflower florets make the skull and joints. Olives and cherry tomatoes add details like eyes and accents.
- → How is the creamy dip prepared?
The dip combines Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper whisked together until smooth and flavorful.
- → Can this platter accommodate dietary restrictions?
It is vegetarian and gluten-free, though it contains dairy and eggs from mayonnaise. Substitutions can be made to suit specific needs.
- → What are some alternative dips to use with the platter?
Hummus or guacamole work well for those wanting to swap the creamy dill dip for different flavors or dairy-free options.
- → How long does the preparation take?
Preparation is quick and simple, typically taking about 25 minutes with no cooking required, making it great for last-minute entertaining.