Table of Information
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 |
Introduction
Veggie sticks with ranch dip is a healthy and refreshing snack perfect for any occasion. It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of raw vegetables paired with a creamy and flavorful dip, making it a hit among both adults and children.
Ingredients
- Carrots – 2, peeled and cut into sticks
- Celery – 3 stalks, cut into sticks
- Cucumbers – 2, cut into sticks
- Bell Peppers – 2 (different colors), cut into sticks
- Cherry Tomatoes – 1 cup
- For the Ranch Dip:
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup
- Sour Cream – ½ cup
- Buttermilk – ¼ cup
- Fresh Dill – 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Fresh Parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped
- Garlic Powder – ½ teaspoon
- Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon
- Salt and Pepper – to taste
Directions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut the carrots, celery, cucumbers, and bell peppers into stick-like shapes. Arrange them on a serving platter with cherry tomatoes.
2. Make the Ranch Dip: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
3. Serve: Place the bowl of ranch dip in the center of the vegetable platter and serve.
Important Tips
- Freshness: Use fresh and crisp vegetables for the best texture.
- Dip Consistency: Adjust the amount of buttermilk to achieve your desired dip consistency.
- Chilling the Dip: For the best flavor, chill the dip for at least 1 hour before serving.
Veggie Sticks with Ranch Dip Variations
- Greek Yogurt Ranch: Substitute sour cream and mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
- Spicy Ranch: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the ranch dip for a spicy twist.
- Additional Veggies: Include other vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or snap peas.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Store leftover vegetables and dip separately in the refrigerator. Vegetables in airtight containers and dip covered.
- Reheating: Not applicable. Enjoy this snack cold.
How to Reheat Veggie Sticks with Ranch Dip
- Reheating is not recommended as this dish is meant to be consumed cold.
Pros and Cons of Veggie Sticks with Ranch Dip
- Pros:
- Healthy Snacking: A great way to consume a variety of raw vegetables.
- Versatile: Can be customized with different vegetables and dip variations.
- Convenient: Easy to prepare and perfect for parties or as a quick snack.
- Cons:
- Perishability: Fresh vegetables can wilt or lose crispness over time.
- Calorie Count: The ranch dip can be high in calories, especially if made with traditional ingredients like mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Refrigeration Required: Both the vegetables and dip need to be kept refrigerated, which can limit portability.