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Fresh Loaded Grilled Vegetable Platter Recipe with Easy Cream Cheese Dip

fresh loaded grilled vegetable platter - featured image

A colorful and smoky grilled vegetable platter served with a creamy, herb-infused cream cheese dip. Perfect for quick weeknight meals, entertaining, or a healthy snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Zucchini, sliced into ¼-inch thick rounds
  • Red and yellow bell peppers, cut into 2-inch strips
  • Asparagus spears, trimmed
  • Red onion, sliced into half-inch thick rings
  • Cherry tomatoes, whole
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse all the vegetables under cold water. Slice zucchini into ¼-inch rounds, cut bell peppers into 2-inch strips, trim asparagus spears, slice red onions into half-inch thick rings, and keep cherry tomatoes whole.
  2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Toss all the vegetables gently in this mixture until lightly coated. Let rest at room temperature while preparing the dip.
  3. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sour cream or Greek yogurt if using. Add chopped chives, parsley, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Adjust consistency with more sour cream or yogurt if desired.
  4. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
  5. Place vegetables on the grill without overlapping. Grill zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and onions for 3-4 minutes per side until tender with char marks. Grill cherry tomatoes for 2-3 minutes, turning gently.
  6. Arrange grilled vegetables on a serving platter or wooden board. Place cream cheese dip in a bowl at the center or side. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Marinate vegetables lightly to enhance sweetness and keep them moist on the grill. Use medium-high heat for perfect char marks without burning. The dip can be made ahead and kept chilled. For vegan or dairy-free options, substitute cream cheese and sour cream with plant-based alternatives. If grilling is not possible, roast vegetables at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled vegetables, cream cheese dip, healthy appetizer, easy grilling, vegetarian, gluten-free, summer recipe