Crudite Vegetables Recipe

Wash all vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry with a clean towel or use a salad spinner for the leafy parts (if any).

Peel the carrots and slice them into 3–4 inch sticks about 1/2 inch thick. Place in a large bowl of iced water for 10 minutes to keep crisp (optional). Drain and pat dry.

Trim cucumber ends, slice lengthwise and remove seeds if very watery, then cut into 3–4 inch sticks similar in size to the carrots.

Seed the bell peppers, remove ribs and membranes, then slice into 3–4 inch strips about 1/2 inch wide.

Trim celery and cut into 3–4 inch sticks.

Rinse cherry tomatoes and radishes. Halve or quarter the radishes depending on size; leave cherry tomatoes whole or halve if large.

Cut broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. If you prefer them slightly tender, blanch in boiling salted water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water and drain; otherwise serve raw.

Arrange all prepared vegetables on a large platter or individual serving boards grouped by type for color and easy grabbing. Keep chilled until serving.

Make the base

In a medium bowl combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil and minced garlic. Stir until smooth and uniform.

Add the chopped dill and chives. Whisk in honey, salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning — add an additional 1/2 tsp salt or a squeeze more lemon if needed.

Cover and chill the dip for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

In a small bowl combine soy sauce, red pepper flakes and toasted sesame seeds. Stir to combine. Drizzle a small amount over a portion of vegetables at serving time or serve on the side for dipping.

Place the chilled platter of crudités on the table with the Herbed Yogurt-Dijon Dip and the Spicy Sesame-Soy Drizzle (if using). Provide small forks or toothpicks if desired.

Garnish the platter with lemon wedges and a few sprigs of parsley. Encourage guests to squeeze lemon lightly over cucumbers or tomatoes if they like.