Let’s talk about the ultimate summer snack: a Healthy Garlic Herb Veggie Platter. Imagine a colorful, crisp array of fresh veggies paired with a creamy, zesty garlic herb dip that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re lounging on the patio or hosting a backyard picnic, this platter is a showstopper that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Honestly, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a love letter to summer produce.

What’s so special about this recipe? For one, it’s incredibly versatile. You can use whatever veggies are in season, making it as local and fresh as possible. Plus, the garlic herb dip is packed with wholesome ingredients that complement the natural sweetness of the veggies. And if you’re looking for a way to sneak more vegetables into your diet (or your kids’), this platter might just be your new best friend.

So grab your cutting board, a handful of vibrant veggies, and let’s create a platter that feels like summer on a plate!

The Story Behind the Healthy Garlic Herb Veggie Platter

Growing up, summer always meant garden-fresh vegetables. My grandmother had the most beautiful backyard garden, and she’d send us kids out to pick cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers. I remember the smell of fresh herbs on my fingers as we snipped handfuls of parsley and dill. This veggie platter is inspired by those sunny afternoons spent in her garden.

The concept of a veggie platter isn’t new, but this recipe takes it to another level with its homemade garlic herb dip. While store-bought veggie dips are convenient, they often come with unnecessary additives. This recipe keeps things simple, wholesome, and downright delicious. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

What I love most is how customizable it is. Depending on the season, you can swap in your favorite veggies or use what’s grown locally. Summer is the perfect time to showcase zucchini, radishes, and snap peas, while in the cooler months, you could lean into roasted root vegetables. The dip recipe has been passed down and tweaked over the years, but the core flavors—garlic, fresh herbs, and a touch of lemon—have remained the same.

Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, heading to a potluck, or just looking for a healthy snack to nibble on, this garlic herb veggie platter is guaranteed to be a hit!

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

The Veggie Stars

Carrots: Sweet and crunchy, they add a pop of orange to your platter. Go for rainbow carrots if you can find them!
Cucumber: Crisp and hydrating, cucumbers are perfect for scooping up the dip.
Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for vibrant color and a mild sweetness.
Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and bite-sized, they burst with flavor.
Snap Peas: Sweet and crunchy, they’re a summer favorite.
Radishes: Add a peppery kick and a lovely pink hue.
Broccoli and Cauliflower Florets: For a bit of texture and a great way to enjoy raw cruciferous veggies.

The Garlic Herb Dip

Greek Yogurt: Creamy and high in protein, it’s the perfect base.
Mayonnaise: Just a touch for richness.
Fresh Garlic: Minced or grated for that bold, garlicky flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley, dill, and chives are my go-to, but basil or cilantro work too.
Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and balance.
Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Substitution Tips

If you’re dairy-free, swap the Greek yogurt for a plain, unsweetened plant-based alternative.
No fresh garlic? Garlic powder works in a pinch.
Experiment with herbs—tarragon or mint can add a unique twist.

Equipment Needed

Cutting Board: A large one works best for prepping and arranging your veggies.
Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing and dicing.
Mixing Bowl: For whipping up the garlic herb dip.
Whisk or Fork: To combine the dip ingredients smoothly.
Serving Platter: Something large and flat to showcase your veggies beautifully.

No fancy equipment? No problem. Even a baking tray lined with parchment paper can serve as a platter in a pinch!

How to Make a Healthy Garlic Herb Veggie Platter

Prep the veggies: Wash and dry all your vegetables thoroughly. Slice the carrots and cucumbers into sticks, cut the bell peppers into strips, halve the cherry tomatoes, and trim the snap peas and radishes.
Make the dip: In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (240g) of Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons (28g) of mayonnaise, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon each of chopped parsley, dill, and chives, and 1 tablespoon (15ml) of fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until smooth.
Arrange the platter: On a large serving platter, group the veggies by type. Place the dip in a bowl at the center or side for easy access.
Chill: If you’re not serving immediately, cover and refrigerate the platter and dip. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving.

Pro tip: For extra crunch, soak your veggie sticks in ice-cold water for 10 minutes before arranging.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to make your veggie platter truly stand out:

Use seasonal veggies: They taste better and are often more affordable.
Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs are what make the dip so flavorful—dried herbs won’t have the same effect.
Balance the colors: A mix of bright and neutral tones makes for a visually stunning platter.
Cut evenly: Uniformly sized veggies make dipping easier and look more professional.

Variations & Adaptations

Dairy-Free Version: Use a plant-based yogurt and skip the mayo or replace it with a vegan alternative.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of sriracha to the dip.
Roasted Veggie Option: Lightly roast broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers for a warm, smoky platter.

One variation I adore is adding grilled zucchini slices—it brings out a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the garlic herb dip!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This veggie platter is best served chilled. Pair it with sparkling water, iced tea, or even a crisp white wine for an elegant touch. For a heartier snack, offer pita chips or crackers alongside the veggies.

Store any leftover veggies and dip in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The dip will last 3-4 days, and the veggies should stay fresh for about 2 days. To re-crisp slightly wilted veggies, soak them in ice water for 5 minutes before serving again.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe is packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, thanks to the variety of vegetables. The Greek yogurt-based dip adds a dose of protein and probiotics, making it a gut-friendly option. It’s naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted to fit dairy-free diets.

At about 120 calories per serving, this platter is a guilt-free way to snack smart while enjoying the best of summer produce.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a snack that’s as healthy as it is beautiful, this Healthy Garlic Herb Veggie Platter is a must-try. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Plus, it makes eating vegetables feel anything but boring!

I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own. What veggies will you include? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to share a photo of your creation on social media. Let’s spread the veggie love—one platter at a time!

FAQs

What veggies work best for a platter?

Any veggies you enjoy raw will work! Carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, radishes, broccoli, and snap peas are classics.

Can I make this platter ahead of time?

Yes! Prep the veggies and dip up to a day in advance. Store them separately and assemble just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just double-check that any additional snacks like crackers or chips are gluten-free if serving alongside.

Can I use dried herbs for the dip?

Fresh herbs are best for flavor, but if you must use dried, cut the quantity in half to avoid overpowering the dip.

How can I make the dip vegan?

Swap the Greek yogurt and mayo for plant-based alternatives, and you’re good to go!

Healthy Garlic Herb Veggie Platter Recipe Perfect for Summer