Greek-style yogurt has taken over supermarket shelves in recent years, in no small part thanks to its thick, rich texture. A treat on its own, Greek yogurt is also an incredibly versatile ingredient to have on hand, to use in baked goods, desserts, marinades…read on for more ideas.
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RecipeIn tzatziki sauce
For many of us, the traditional Greek cucumber-yogurt sauce known as tzatziki was our first introduction to Greek yogurt. And though it can be used in so many more ways, tzatzkiki is always a standby, pairing perfectly with grilled meats, pita chips, and falafel. -
RecipeAs a popsicle base
For an easy homemade take on the orange Creamsicles you remember from childhood, just combine Greek yogurt with orange juice, vanilla and simple syrup, and freeze in ice pop molds. -
RecipeIn a creamy soup
Traditional creamy vegetable soups have you stir in a little heavy cream just at the end of cooking, to add a lush richness. Swap in Greek yogurt, though, and you get not just that rich, velvety texture, but a tangy flavor. It's a terrific complement to sweet root vegetables, like carrots, or winter squash. -
RecipeFor breakfast
Well, this one's a no-brainer, of course, but protein-packed Greek yogurt is a perfect way to fuel your morning. We like to top it with crunchy nuts and a sweet fruit compote to contrast the yogurt's tanginess. In summer we love slow-cooked apricots with pistachios, or in winter try this compote of dried fruits simmered with chai tea. -
RecipeAs a sauce base
This quick take on a cream sauce doesn't require the long process of reducing the cream until it coats the vegetables; the yogurt is already thick and creamy. The fragrant sauce pairs well with steamed carrots, cauliflower, or green beans for a fast side dish. -
RecipeIn place of whipped cream
Whether you're using whipped cream as the base of a mousse, ganache, or just a dollop on top of your dessert, delicious things can happen when you swap in Greek yogurt. Take this raspberry-topped tart, where yogurt subs for heavy cream in the decadent chocolate ganache filling. -
RecipeIn baked goods
Yogurt acts much like buttermilk in this recipe, providing both flavor and a source of acid to react with the baking soda and leaven the waffles. In fact, when a baking recipe calls for buttermilk, you can usually substitute yogurt with good results; for Greek yogurt, you may need to thin the batter slightly with milk or water. -
RecipeAs a marinade
It's a myth that all marinades tenderize meat; most do not. But the calcium in yogurt-based marinades activates enzymes in meat that break down muscle proteins, making for a more tender roast chicken or grilled kebab. Plus, yogurt's thick texture helps the marinade cling to the meat, so it's easy to apply evenly all over. -
RecipeIn burgers
In these savory lamb burgers, a touch of Greek yogurt adds moisture and helps bind the meat mixture together (plus it makes a killer sauce blended with avocado). -
RecipeIn dips and dressings
Greek yogurt provides a similar tangy flavor and lush, creamy texture as sour cream in dips and dressings, but—if you use low- or non-fat yogurt—with much less fat and plenty of protein and calcium. -
RecipeIn place of mayonnaise
Greek yogurt mimicks mayo's creamy texture in a chicken or potato salad, but adds its distinctive tanginess. In this shrimp salad, yogurt adds a welcome acidity and a healthy twist to the classic Caesar dressing.
