Crudités Platter

A crudités platter graces the table at almost any Southern soiree, no matter the season. Not only does this snack balance out all those other goodies (pimiento cheese, sausage balls, ham biscuits, you name it), but it is incredibly simple to throw together and allows fresh, raw vegetables to shine.

But this is no pre-made, grocery-aisle crudités platter. Nashville-based stylist Katie Jacobs upgrades the tired veggie platter with vibrant local vegetables and cute, themed touches—perfect for your Easter celebration but adaptable for year-round festivities.

A crudités platter can look elegant if you're willing to spend a little time putting it together; plus, it's an inexpensive snack for a crowd. "The key is to include pops of color," Jacobs says. "I went to the farmers' market and chose carrots that were purple, orange, and yellow and radishes that were pretty on the inside." Add cauliflower and sprouts for texture too. A simple dill-spiked dip pairs beautifully with the assortment of local produce.

The Difference Between Crudités and Veggie Platters

A crudités platter is essentially a veggie platter fancied up with a French name. Pronounced "crew-deh-tay," this platter of sliced or whole raw vegetables is often served with a dipping sauce (or two). It's also sometimes paired with a charcuterie board full of fresh cheeses, sliced meats, crackers, or crusty bread. It's a popular dish to put out when guests arrive for holidays and other types of gatherings, whether for indoor or outdoor events.

Tips for the Best Crudités Platter

This simple platter can be a showstopper—especially if you keep a few tips in mind:

• The freshest veggies: Use only the freshest vegetables, and keep them cold until serving to make sure they're crisp and vibrant.
• Keep it bite-sized: Make sure everything on the platter is easy to grab, and around a similar size for snacking on.
• Pair with dips: You can never have too many dip options when it comes to crudités—but one stellar option can also be enough.
• Pair salty and sweet: Incorporating a few types of fruit along with the vegetables, adding olives, or even a duo of savory and sweet dips can be a nice way of adding salty and sweet elements to the platter.

Ingredients for a Crudités Platter

To assemble this crudités platter, you'll need:

For the dip:

• Plain, whole-milk Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and a creamy texture.
• Cream cheese: Adds richness and thickens the dip.
• Horseradish: Adds a pungent kick.
• Whole milk: Thins the mixture slightly for easy dipping.
• Fresh dill: Adds a grassy, fresh note.
• Lemon: Zested and juiced to add brightness.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor.
• Smoked paprika: Brings a smoky warmth.

For serving:

• Alfalfa sprouts: Can be substituted with micro greens or herbs.
• Cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, beets, cucumbers, carrots, broccoli, and radishes: Sliced or trimmed to similar sizes.
  

How To Make a Crudités Platter

This platter comes together quickly, and can be made and chilled a few hours ahead for a quick and impressive appetizer when guests arrive.

• Step 1: Prepare the dip: Stir to combine first seven ingredients. Spoon into a bowl; sprinkle with paprika.
• Step 2: Assemble the platter: Place dip on platter; surround with vegetables.
  

Other Dips for Serving With Crudités

When it comes to serving crudités, you can never have too many dips. Try some of these for a little variety on your platter:

• Spinach-and-Vidalia Dip
• Blue Cheese-Bacon-Spinach dip
• Broccoli Salad Dip
• Buttermilk-Ricotta Cheese Dip
• Smoky Ranch Dip
• Blue Cheese Ranch Dip
• Caramel Apple Dip
• Baked Goat Cheese Dip

How To Keep Crudités Platters Fresh

If assembling the platter in advance (up to 4 hours is best), top vegetables with damp paper towels, wrap tightly and refrigerate. This will help keep everything fresh and crisp until it's time to serve.

The dip can be made and refrigerated up to three days in advance.

Editorial contributions by Katie Rosenhouse.