Save This Thanksgiving Dip Board is my favorite answer to holiday gatherings when you want to keep things flexible crowd-pleasing and fuss-free. Setting it up is a breeze and it always draws people to the table with its colors and inviting spread—great for friends family or even a cozy potluck.
When I first put this board together for Thanksgiving it disappeared quicker than any hot appetizer I had ever made and now my family expects it every year along with the classics.
Ingredients
- Classic hummus: provides creamy protein-rich flavor and balances the board with earthy notes Choose a good brand with minimal additives
- Cranberry cream cheese dip: adds tangy sweetness a true holiday highlight Use whole berry cranberry sauce and zest an orange for the freshest taste
- Spinach-artichoke dip: brings classic comfort and a touch of green Opt for a dip loaded with real spinach and chunks of artichoke
- Roasted butternut squash dip: offers sweet roasted flavor and seasonal color Look for a version with smoky spices or roast your own squash for more depth
- Caramelized onion dip: lends savory umami Creamy versions with real onions slow cooked will taste best
- Baby carrots: add crunch and color Look for petite crisp carrots for easy grabbing
- Celery sticks: give a fresh clean bite Go for the inner stalks for tenderness
- Cucumber slices: cool and refreshing Thin uniformly sliced cucumbers are perfect for dipping
- Mini bell pepper strips: provide vibrant color and sweetness Choose firm glossy peppers in a variety of colors
- Cherry tomatoes: burst with juicy flavor Grape or cherry tomatoes should be plump with no cracks
- Assorted crackers: create texture and variety Include whole grain or seed crackers for extra flavor
- Baguette sliced and toasted: gives a crunchy base Look for a crusty baguette and toast just before serving
- Pita chips: add hearty crunch Pick sturdy pita chips to stand up to thick dips
- Red grapes: add sweetness and beautiful color Choose firm grapes and snip into small bunches
- Apple slices: provide tart crunch Use crisp apples that resist browning like Honeycrisp
- Dried cranberries: for chewy tart bites Opt for unsweetened if possible
- Pecan halves toasted: bring nutty rich flavor Toast in a dry pan for extra aroma
- Sliced turkey breast or ham optional for non-vegetarians: Choose quality deli slices if adding meat
- Fresh chives finely chopped: for a burst of oniony freshness Add just before serving
- Fresh parsley chopped: brings brightness Choose herbs that look perky and green
Instructions
- Prepare the Dips:
- If making from scratch prepare dips up to a day ahead and refrigerate Warm spinach-artichoke and butternut squash dips gently before serving so flavors stand out and textures are just right
- Set Up the Board:
- Arrange small bowls with each dip evenly across your largest serving board or platter This ensures every guest can reach a favorite dip
- Arrange Fresh Vegetables:
- Cluster carrots celery cucumbers bell pepper strips and tomatoes around the dips Place in color groupings for visual appeal and easy dipping
- Add Crackers and Bread:
- Distribute crackers toasted baguette slices and pita chips between the veggies Keep these close to the dips for easy snacking
- Fill in Fruits and Nuts:
- Nestle grapes apple slices dried cranberries and toasted pecans into every empty space The board should look full and abundant
- Optional Charcuterie:
- Fold or roll turkey breast or ham and place to one side Perfect for mixed company and easy for guests to grab
- Garnish and Finish:
- Sprinkle chopped chives and parsley over the dips and board for a pop of color and freshness
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Set out with spreaders and let everyone mix and match flavors Encourage guests to explore new combos as they go
Save One of my favorite parts is the roasted butternut squash dip which always tastes like the holidays to me My daughter likes to help arrange the grapes and pecans and that little moment together is something I look forward to each year
Storage Tips
Leftover dips can be covered and refrigerated for up to three days while cut veggies are best within a day or two To keep apple slices fresh rub with lemon juice and store in a zip-top bag For the bread and crackers keep them separate from moist ingredients or they will become stale or soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap in your favorite dips think roasted red pepper guacamole or herbed yogurt Dairy free and nut free dips are easy to sub in if needed For gluten free boards stick with rice crackers seed crackers or even sliced cucumbers for fun scooping
Serving Suggestions
Pair this board with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling cider Set out small appetizer plates and napkins so guests can build their own snack plates You can even create mini skewers with veggies and grapes for a passed appetizer
Cultural and Holiday Traditions
Dip boards have become a fun new Thanksgiving tradition at our house letting everyone snack while the turkey finishes and conversations get going Their communal nature fits perfectly with the spirit of the holiday
Seasonal Adaptations
Swap in roasted sweet potatoes for butternut squash in the winter Try fresh figs or pomegranate seeds for a festive pop Include seasonal soft cheeses or dairy-free cheese spreads for variety
Success Stories
Last year my cousin who usually skips appetizers ended up hovering by the board most of the afternoon The range of flavors and textures kept everyone happy even our pickiest eaters
Freezer Meal Conversion
Homemade dips like spinach-artichoke and butternut squash freeze surprisingly well cool fully portion into airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge Vegetables and crackers should always be added fresh to maintain their crunch
Save This board is festive flexible and guaranteed to keep guests happy from first arrival until dinner. Mix and match dips and colors to give every holiday gathering a cheerful start.
Recipe FAQs
- → What dips are best for the board?
Include a mix of creamy, tangy, and savory options such as hummus, cranberry cream cheese, spinach-artichoke, roasted squash, and caramelized onion dips for variety.
- → How do I arrange ingredients attractively?
Group vegetables, fruits, and breads by color and texture. Place dips evenly, then fill gaps with nuts and garnishes for visual appeal and balance.
- → What beverage pairs well?
Try chilled white wines like Pinot Grigio, or sparkling apple cider for a festive, non-alcoholic option to complement the spread.
- → Can I make the board gluten-free?
Yes, substitute regular crackers and breads with gluten-free versions to accommodate dietary needs, keeping each item clearly labeled if desired.
- → How can I add more protein?
Include sliced turkey breast, ham, or serve a bean-based dip. Cheese cubes and nuts also boost the protein content for guests.
- → What are common allergens to note?
The board may contain dairy, gluten, and nuts. Check dip ingredients for soy or sesame, and always review product labels for hidden allergens.