Greek Yogurt with Honey Thyme Walnut Crumble opens in a new tab
Greek yogurt is so creamy and delicious, even the fat-free versions are amazing! It’s incredibly versatile and adds a smooth touch to all kinds of treats and favorite recipes like Caramelized Onion Dip opens in a new tab, Greek Yogurt with Honey Thyme Walnut Crumble, opens in a new tab and Green Beans with Tangy Shallot-Yogurt Sauce opens in a new tab.
Greek yogurt can be used in practically any recipe calling for regular yogurt. What’s the difference? Greek varieties are strained to remove the whey (the watery part of the milk that remains after the milk has been cultured and strained), which leaves the yogurt smooth, thick and decadently creamy.
Ounce for ounce, plain Greek yogurt is typically lower in sugar, lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein than regular plain yogurt. And, naturally-cultured yogurt, Greek or not, contains probiotics. Those are the friendly bacteria that support healthy digestion and beneficial intestinal flora. Always check the label to be sure your yogurt contains live active cultures.
Try these tips and recipes using Greek yogurt:
Replace sour cream, mayonnaise or cream cheese in a variety of recipes such as chicken or potato salad, Double-Stuffed Deviled Eggs with Ham opens in a new tab, dips, sauces and spreads.
Add to salad dressings for a creamy consistency.
Yogurt is popular in many Mediterranean dishes. Lamb and Potato Dolma opens in a new tab dipped into plain Greek yogurt and Greek Meatball Pitas opens in a new tab are wonderful examples.
Add dried fruits and nuts such as walnuts, pecans and cranberries to plain or flavored Greek yogurt. Add a dollop on waffles and pancakes, or spread over cinnamon toast, biscuits or scones.
Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream in muffins, cakes and other baked goods like this Orange and Clove Greek Yogurt Tea Cake opens in a new tab.
Our seasonal Cranberry Molasses Cake opens in a new tab is frosted with a snowy-white combination of Greek yogurt and confectioner’s sugar.
Use Greek yogurt as “cream” in soups or vegetable dishes.
Add to a favorite quiche recipe in place of milk, cream or sour cream.
Use as a creamy topper for soups and stews.
Mix with peanut, almond or other favorite nut butter; use as a dip or spread.
Sauté or grill seasonal winter fruits (apples, pears and dried fruits). Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of balsamic vinegar. Try a variation of our Grilled Figs with Greek Yogurt and Spiced Nuts opens in a new tab.
Did you know you can even whip Greek yogurt, just like whipping cream? Simply combine with honey, confectioner’s sugar or other sweetener and beat with an electric mixer or whisk until soft peaks form. Chill or serve immediately on cold-weather favorites such as warm Spiced Apple and Pear Crisp opens in a new tab or kid-friendly Mini Pumpkin-Gingerbread Cupcakes opens in a new tab.
So, have you tried Greek yogurt? What’s your favorite way to serve it? Let me know.
