Save A whimsical, ocean-inspired appetizer featuring creamy, herbed dips and fresh vegetables, artfully arranged in a fish shape. Perfect for parties and gatherings.
I love surprising guests with this fun ocean-themed dip tray that tastes as delightful as it looks.
Ingredients
- Creamy Herbed Dip: 1 cup (240 g) cream cheese softened, 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream, 2 tbsp fresh dill finely chopped, 2 tbsp fresh chives finely chopped, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt and pepper to taste
- Blue Ranch Dip: 1 cup (240 g) Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix, 1–2 drops natural blue food coloring (optional for ocean effect)
- Vegetables & Decoration: 1 cup (100 g) baby carrots, 1 cup (100 g) cucumber slices, 1 cup (100 g) celery sticks, 1 cup (100 g) cherry tomatoes halved, 1/2 cup (50 g) purple cabbage shredded, 1/2 cup (50 g) yellow bell pepper sliced, 1/4 cup (30 g) black olives pitted, 1 slice radish (for fish eye)
Instructions
- Mix Herbed Dip:
- In a bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, dill, chives, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside as the herbed dip.
- Prepare Blue Ranch Dip:
- In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning. Add blue food coloring (if using) and mix until evenly tinted.
- Form Fish Body:
- On a large platter, use a spoon to spread the blue ranch dip in an oval shape to form the fish body.
- Shape Fish Head:
- Spoon the herbed dip at the fishs head area shaping it slightly pointed for the mouth.
- Arrange Tail:
- Arrange baby carrots as the fishs tail fanning them out.
- Create Scales:
- Use cucumber slices and celery sticks to create fish scales layering them over the blue dip.
- Add Accents:
- Place cherry tomato halves yellow bell pepper strips and purple cabbage for colorful accents and fins.
- Add Fish Eye:
- Add a black olive and radish slice for the fishs eye.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately with extra veggies on the side for dipping.
Save This appetizer always brings smiles as family and friends gather around sharing bites and stories.
Required Tools
Large serving platter, mixing bowls, spatula or spoon, small knife for decoration
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream cheese sour cream Greek yogurt). Ranch seasoning may contain milk or other allergens check labels if sensitive. Gluten-free if all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Nutritional Information
Calories 110. Total Fat 7 g. Carbohydrates 7 g. Protein 4 g per serving.
Save Enjoy creating this playful and tasty appetizer that brightens any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What ingredients create the blue color in the dip?
Natural blue food coloring is added to the Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning mix to achieve the ocean-inspired blue tint.
- → How is the fish shape formed with the ingredients?
The blue ranch dip forms the body base, with herbed cheese spread shaped for the head. Sliced cucumbers and celery mimic scales, while baby carrots fan out as the tail.
- → Can this dish accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes, it can be made gluten-free and vegetarian. Plant-based dairy alternatives can be used for vegan versions.
- → What tools are needed for assembling the dip platter?
A large serving platter, mixing bowls, spatula or spoon, and a small knife for decoration are sufficient for preparation.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate. Consume within 2 days for best freshness and flavor.
- → Are there suggested beverage pairings?
Pairs well with chilled Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with a hint of lemon for a refreshing accompaniment.