The best what and easiest way to get nice var_dump is use xDebug (must have for any php dev) Debian way install
In console: apt-get install php-xdebug
after that you should open php.ini (depends on which stack you use) for it's /etc/php/7.0/fpm/php.ini
Search for display_errors
set same -> display_errors = On
Check html_errors
in same file a little bit below, it's also must be On
Save and exit
After open /etc/php/7.0/fpm/conf.d/20-xdebug.ini
And add to the end: ``` xdebug.cli_color=1
``` Save and exit.
A lot other available option and documentation for xdebug can be founded here.
Good luck and Have Fun !!!