Thanksgiving Veggie Tray

Name: Thanksgiving Veggie Tray
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients: Carrots, cut into sticks; Celery, cut into sticks; Cherry tomatoes; Cucumber, sliced; Bell peppers, sliced; Radishes, halved; Hummus; Ranch dressing; Spinach dip

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Elevate your holiday gathering with this colorful Thanksgiving Veggie Tray, featuring a delightful array of seasonal vegetables, creamy dips, and festive presentation. Perfect for sharing or as a healthy appetizer, this platter adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your Thanksgiving feast, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-08T16:43:26.096Z

This Thanksgiving Veggie Tray not only brings joy to your table but also provides a healthy alternative amidst the holiday indulgence. It's a vibrant canvas of color and flavor!

The Benefits of a Veggie Tray

A Thanksgiving Veggie Tray is not only visually appealing but also a healthy addition to your holiday spread. Incorporating fresh vegetables into your meal helps balance heavier dishes like turkey and stuffing. This tray serves as a crunchy, refreshing complement to your feast, offering guests a guilt-free option that satisfies hunger while providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Moreover, a veggie tray encourages mindful eating. With vibrant colors and diverse textures, the platter catches the eye and makes it easier for guests to indulge in wholesome choices. When presented beautifully, fresh vegetables can elevate the overall dining experience, making your Thanksgiving gathering more memorable.

Customization and Variety

One of the best aspects of a veggie tray is its versatility. You can customize it to suit the preferences and dietary restrictions of your guests. Whether you opt for classic favorites like carrots and celery or include seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, the tray can easily cater to various tastes. You can even experiment with unique veggies such as snap peas or colorful heirloom tomatoes for an extra pop.

Additionally, you can change up the dips based on your crowd. While hummus and ranch dressing are popular choices, consider offering different flavors, like a spicy avocado dip or a zesty yogurt-based option. This not only adds diversity to your tray but also allows guests to discover new flavor combinations.

Presentation Tips for a Stunning Platter

Creating an eye-catching veggie tray is key to making it a centerpiece at your Thanksgiving table. Start with a large, colorful platter that complements your theme. Arrange the vegetables in a rainbow pattern or group them by color to create visual depth. Use small bowls for your dips to add height and texture, ensuring they are placed strategically for easy access.

To further enhance your veggie tray, consider adding garnishes like fresh herbs or edible flowers, which can add an elegant touch. Remember that the more variety you include, the more appealing it becomes. Guests will be drawn to the vibrant display, making it a highlight of your celebration.

Ingredients

Fresh Vegetables

Carrots, cut into sticks
Celery, cut into sticks
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber, sliced
Bell peppers, sliced
Radishes, halved

Dips

Hummus
Ranch dressing
Spinach dip

Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and cut all the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a large platter in a colorful display.

Add Dips

Place small bowls of your chosen dips around the platter for easy access.

Serve and Enjoy

Present the veggie tray at your Thanksgiving table for guests to enjoy!

Enjoy your healthy and vibrant Thanksgiving Veggie Tray!

Health Benefits of Each Vegetable

Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which is great for eye health, and they offer a satisfying crunch. Celery is low in calories and provides hydration, making it an excellent choice for weight-conscious guests. Cherry tomatoes are rich in antioxidants and add a burst of sweetness to your platter, while cucumber slices are refreshing and hydrating.

Bell peppers are one of the best sources of vitamin C, essential for immune function, and radishes not only add a peppery flavor but also contain fiber, which aids digestion. By including a variety of these vegetables, you ensure that your veggie tray is not only delicious but also nutrient-dense.

Perfect Pairings with Your Dips

Hummus, made from chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, is a versatile dip that pairs wonderfully with almost any vegetable. It adds a creamy texture and nutty flavor that enhances the taste of fresh veggies. Ranch dressing is another crowd favorite, ideal for those who enjoy a rich, herby flavor on their crunchy snacks.

Spinach dip is a richer option that complements vegetables like bell peppers and cucumbers beautifully. It’s a favorite for those looking to indulge a little during the holidays. Consider including whole grain crackers or pita chips alongside your veggie tray for a great way for guests to mingle and enjoy different textures and flavors.

Making It Ahead of Time

Preparing your Thanksgiving Veggie Tray ahead of time can save you stress on the big day. Most vegetables can be washed, cut, and stored a few hours in advance. Simply keep them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Even the dips can be made a day before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

On the day of your gathering, all you'll need to do is arrange the veggies on the platter. This not only helps you enjoy more time with your guests but ensures that everything is crisp and delicious when it’s time to serve. Planning ahead will make your Thanksgiving celebration as delightful as can be.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this veggie tray ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator.

→ What other dips can I include?

You can include guacamole, tzatziki, or any other favorite dips!