Are you looking for a way to add some flavor to your kitchen but don't know where to start? Look no further than the humble pot of plain yogurt! Rich, creamy and versatile, plain yogurt is a pantry hero you can rely on for budget-friendly, flavorful meals.
There are many tasty recipes that you can make with plain yogurt. Some examples include smoothies, salads, soups, and desserts like yogurt parfaits and frozen yogurt bites.
From refreshing and zesty salads to comforting soups and decedent desserts, this supermarket staple can easily be transformed into ten scrumptious dishes that you and your family will love. Keep reading for a breakdown of the tastiest recipes you can make using plain yogurt!
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Creative Ways to Use Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt is a versatile and healthy ingredient that can be used for much more than just breakfast. It can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise, cream cheese, sour cream and even butter in recipes. Additionally, its smooth tangy flavor makes it an ideal dish topper or dip. There are several creative ways to utilize plain yogurt in both savory and sweet recipes.
One way to use plain yogurt is in dressings. Many creamy dressings contain mayonnaise or sour cream, but plain yogurt has a thick and tangy consistency that pairs well with fresh herbs and spices. Additionally, the freshness of the yogurt adds texture and color to the dressing without too much added fat.
It is also an excellent substitute for butter in baking. Using plain yogurt instead of oil or margarine adds moisture to dishes such as cakes and muffins while still providing that unmistakable richness so often found in desserts.
For those looking for a healthier option when eating out, plain yogurt can also be used to make mock tartar sauce. Simply combine a tablespoon of mayo, pickle relish, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, mustard and successively add some diced dill pickles until desired thickness is achieved. Drizzle over fish or chicken for a tasty meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Finally, plain yogurt also makes an excellent dip for fruits or vegetables. Simply blend together some plain yogurt with honey or maple syrup and ground cinnamon until a delicious dip is formed. Add some crushed walnuts for extra crunch or create layers by adding different flavors such as ginger or nutmeg powder.
Whether used in dressings, desserts, dips or sauces, plain yogurt is incredibly versatile and sure to elevate any dish it's included in. It's time to get creative with this popular item! With that said, let's take a look at 10 delicious breakfast recipes you can make with plain yogurt.
Breakfast Recipes
For a nutritious and delicious start to the day, try yogurt as an ingredient in breakfast recipes. Plain yogurt has a pleasantly tart flavor that adds complexity and texture to morning meals. It's also full of healthy bacteria and protein, making it an essential part of a balanced diet. Here are some delicious breakfast recipes featuring plain yogurt.
- Fruit Parfait: Layer cut-up fresh fruit with plain yogurt and granola in a tall glass for an easy, crowd-pleasing parfait. To make it extra special, stir a bit of honey or maple syrup into the yogurt before layering it in with the other ingredients.
- French Toast Bake: Replace eggs in your classic French toast recipe with Greek or Skyr-style yogurt for a unique spin on the dish. Simply mix together the soaked slices of bread, berries or other fillings, sweetener, spices and yogurt before baking until golden brown and bubbly.
- Savory Porridge: Switch up your morning oatmeal by adding plain yogurt for creaminess and savory seasoning for flavor. For instance, use garlic powder, chili flakes, herbs de Provence or cumin to season cooked oats stirred in with nonfat Greek yogurt and top with tomatoes or cooked mushrooms for added vegetable nutrition.
- Yogurt Smoothie Bowl: Start your morning with a healthy smoothie bowl by blending frozen banana slices with plain vanilla or plain unsweetened yogurt until thick but still creamy. Top your bowl with fresh fruits like sliced kiwi, shredded coconut and granola to provide crunch and nutrients along with extra flavors.
Whether you opt to whip up an easy smoothie or bake up a unique breakfast treat featuring plain yogurt as the main ingredient, these dishes provide an excellent base to get your day started on the right foot nutritionally speaking. Now let’s explore how you can take this versatile dairy product into savory recipes – coming up next!
Plain yogurt is a nutritious and delicious ingredient to use for breakfast. It is packed with probiotics and protein and can be used to make several recipes, such as fruit parfaits, French toast bake and savoury porridge. Yogurt can also be used to make smoothie bowls or used in savoury dishes. By including plain yogurt in your diet, you can get your day started on the right foot nutritionally speaking.
Savory Recipes
Savory recipes with plain yogurt offer a quick and easy way to add flavor and richness to your dish without the need for added butter or cream. Yogurt can be used in everything from soups and salads, to entrees and sides. It adds a cool, tangy flavor that pairs well with creamy sauces, vegetables, and grains.
For savory dishes like sauces, dressings, or marinades, yogurt can serve as an excellent substitute for mayonnaise. With its high water content, it thins out creamy sauces while adding a bright mild flavor. And because of its acidity, it can help tenderize tougher cuts of meat when used as a marinade. For those who are lactose intolerant or choose not to consume dairy, vegan-friendly yogurt is also widely available.
When cooking with yogurt, it is important to remember to use the full-fat variety whenever possible since fat helps preserve the natural flavors. Non-fat yogurts are lower in calories but lack the richness that would otherwise enhance the taste of your savory dishes.
By using plain yogurt in savory recipes instead of mayo or cream-based sauces, you can create a lightened-up version of your favorite dish with equal flavor and maximum nutrition.
Next up, we'll be talking about dips, sauces, and marinades. By exploring the versatility of plain yogurt further, we’ll highlight even more options for creating dishes chock full of savory goodness.
Dips, Sauces, and Marinades
Plain yogurt is extremely versatile, and it can be used to make delicious dips, sauces, and marinades. One of the best things about using plain yogurt as a base for these recipes is that it adds protein without adding too many additional calories or fat. This makes plain yogurt perfect for those watching their caloric intake who don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
For dips, plain yogurt pairs especially well with savory herbs such as garlic, dill, and chives. A Creamy Chili Chip Dip made from plain yogurt is one of the most popular dip recipes. It’s easy to make, requiring just a few common ingredients like plain Greek yogurt and chili powder. The combination of spicy chili powder and creamy plain yogurt makes it an irresistible snack. For another delicious dip, try Whipped Feta Dip, which calls for plain Greek yogurt, feta cheese, garlic cloves, parsley leaves, and lemon juice.
For sauces and marinades, plain yogurt provides a healthy alternative to cream-based options. An easy homemade teriyaki sauce made with vermouth or mirin, soy sauce, white vinegar, honey and plain Greek yogurt will add a flavorful punch to any meal. Plain yogurt can also be used as a natural tenderizer in marinades because of its acidic content. Indian-style Chicken Tikka Masala calls for low-fat plain yogurt instead of cream, making it a lighter yet equally flavorful take on this classic dish.
These dips, sauces and marinades all highlight how easy it is to use plain yogurt in creative ways outside the realm of breakfast and dessert recipes. But that's not all! In the next section we'll explore ten sweet ideas that showcase how you can use this versatile ingredient in desserts such as smoothies and ice cream – don't miss it!
Sweet Ideas with Plain Yogurt
For anyone looking for a sweet treat without the added sugar, plain yogurt can be the perfect substitute. Filled with calcium, protein, and probiotics, yogurt will satisfy your craving without ruining your diet. Here are just a few ideas and recipes for enjoying sweet treats using plain yogurt.
One simple way to enjoy a sweet snack is to mix in a little honey or maple syrup into plain yogurt and top with fresh fruit. For example, blueberries, peaches, and strawberries are all delicious options that can give you an extra boost of antioxidants. If you’re looking for something a bit more decadent, you can add a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter instead of honey. The nut butter will provide healthy fats in addition to the yogurt’s protein content.
Oatmeal can also be used as a topping for plain yogurt as well. For an extra boost of flavor and heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, try adding ground flaxseeds and chia seeds on top before serving. Adding crushed nuts such as walnuts or pecans will add crunchy texture and another layer of nutritional value.
An even simpler option would be to blend up your favorite fruits with plain yogurt and some ice until it reaches the right consistency. Frozen bananas work especially well as they have a naturally creamy consistency when blended as well as natural sweetness no added sugars needed!
The discussion between homemade versus store-bought versions of these recipes will largely depend on personal preferences. While store-bought versions may save time, homemade versions may provide the assurance that artificial or processed ingredients aren’t used in the recipe. Ultimately it's up to each individual to decide which works best for them.
With these tasty and nutritious ideas for incorporating plain yogurt into sweet snacks, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this healthy ingredient. Now let's move onto smoothies and drinks that use plain yogurt—a perfect breakfast or post-workout refreshment!
Smoothies and Drinks
Yogurt can be used in a variety of beverages to create super creamy smoothies and drinks. Adding plain yogurt to a smoothie will give it a thick consistency, while making sure the smoothie is still low-calorie. Whole milk yogurts provide the most beneficial protein without adding too many extra calories. For a delicious and healthy smoothie, consider blending some yogurt with frozen berries, honey, vanilla extract, banana, and almond milk. This combination is sure to satisfy any taste buds!
Another popular way to use plain yogurt is by creating a lassi. A lassi is an Indian drink traditionally made with yogurt, water, and spices. This cool and refreshing beverage can be adapted for all sorts of preferences. Consider mixing Greek yogurt, sugar, cardamom powder, honey, mango puree, and water together in a blender for a truly sensational concoction.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something that could give you an energy boost in the morning hours consider making breakfast smoothies or frappes with plain yogurt as your base. To make this type of drink why not try combining plain yogurt with coffee or espresso shots, simple syrup, ice cubes, cocoa powder (optional) or some flavored extracts or syrups such as mint extract or hazelnut syrup. All you have to do is blend all these ingredients together and voila – you have yourself a tastefully creamy frappe!
No matter which option you prefer – smoothies or frappes – there are plenty of recipes available online to choose from! Now let's move on to discuss more recipes using plain yogurt - here comes the next section about topping and desserts!
Toppings and Desserts
When it comes to yogurt recipes, toppings and desserts are some of the most popular. With just a few ingredients, you can easily transform plain yogurt into a delicious treat.
For healthy toppings, try adding fresh fruit like bananas, strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or granola on top. If you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle some chocolate syrup or honey over it. You can also make a savory topping with bacon bits, diced tomatoes, soy sauce, and chives.
Those who have a sweet tooth can turn plain yogurt into delicious desserts such as parfaits and tarts. To make a parfait, layer different flavors of yogurt with your choice of fresh fruit, granola, and other add-ins. Or bake crustless tart shells filled with flavored yogurt and topped with seasonal fruits for an elegant presentation that tastes as good as it looks.
To finish up your yogurt creations in style, sprinkle on some shredded coconut flakes or even freeze-dried fruits for an added decoration and texture.
Finally, if you want to stay away from all the sugar but still enjoy your yogurt as a snack or dessert then make frozen yogurtsicles. Just fill up popsicle molds with plain yogurt and your favorite toppings for cool treats that won’t leave your taste buds wanting for more sugar.
Now that we've explored some delicious ways to top off your simple bowl of yogurt with healthful toppings or turn them into delectable desserts let's move on to our next section on "Healthy Yogurt Snacks and Meals.
Healthy Yogurt Snacks and Meals
Yogurt is well known as a very healthy and nourishing food, as it is naturally high in calcium and protein while being naturally low in fat and calories. Aside from being delicious and providing nutrition, yogurt can be used to create a variety of healthy snacks or balanced meals. Here are a few suggestions for those looking to incorporate more yogurt into their daily lives:
For a light snack or dessert, whipped Greek Yogurt is a fragrant and delicious treat. It only requires one container of Greek Yogurt and desired flavoring - such as honey, Nutella, granola, cinnamon or any other topping you would like. This snack is smooth, creamy and both sweet and tangy.
Those who want something savory can opt for making a yogurt dipping sauce, which is perfect for piling onto your favorite chips or vegetables. Additionally, it can also serve as a great condiment for sandwiches, tacos or wraps. The sauce is relatively easy to make - simply mix together 3-4 tablespoons of yogurt with oregano, garlic salt, parsley flakes, cilantro and pepper to give the yogurt a touch of flavor.
Several unique dishes can be created with yogurt that make hearty meals filled with protein to keep you full throughout the day. For instance, curry chicken salad made with plain yogurt has all the flavor you need while providing lots of nutrients as well. In addition to chicken thighs/breasts and curry powder, this recipe calls for apples, grapes, walnuts and raisins along with celery stalks and yellow onions – all of which add texture and necessary vitamins/minerals.
Those who are vegetarian can find plenty of options too! Try out tempeh wrap recipes with hummus or tzatziki yogurt sauce – both provide exciting combinations within the wrap while packing in the protein that vegetarians often lack. These wraps could include lettuce, kale sprigs, bell peppers tomatoes and cucumbers – just sprinkle some feta cheese on top for extra flavor!
Whether you are looking for a simple snack or meal replacement idea – plain yogurt certainly has many uses! We have now discussed how versatile plain yogurt can be when creating healthy snacks or balanced meals – so let's move onto discussing creative recipes that use plain yogurt in new and exciting ways!
Creative Yogurt Recipes
Creating dishes with plain yogurt as an ingredient provides endless culinary possibilities. From preparing smoothies and parfaits to using yogurt in savory ways, there are many creative options for yogurt recipes. For a protein-packed breakfast or snack, smoothies made with yogurt are a delicious option. Choose from seasonal fruits like strawberries, blueberries, apples, and bananas to make a flavorful smoothie. Yogurt parfaits offer the perfect opportunity to layer flavors. Place spoonfuls of yogurt in layers between granola or other cereal and fresh fruit. Enjoy with a drizzle of honey for an extra sweet touch.
Yogurt can also be used beyond breakfast or snacks. Incorporate it into entrees such as pasta dishes, casseroles and soups. When used in place of cream based products, yogurt can lighten up heavier meals while still providing great flavor. For a more savory dish, mix together cooked lentils, chopped walnuts and spiced yogurt for a healthy side or main dish. There is no wrong way to be creative with yogurt recipes — plus you will benefit from all its health properties!
It is important to note that they can provide unique and exciting flavors while still delivering great nutrition values at the same time. The next section will discuss the conclusion of this article about 10 delicious recipes you can make with plain yogurt.
Conclusion
Plain Yogurt can be used in a myriad of delicious, nutritious recipes. From breakfast bowls to savory dishes and desserts, yogurt offers endless possibilities for creating a flavorful meal. There are endless variations that can be made with plain yogurt- it can be used solo or combined with other ingredients to make mouth-watering creations.
In addition to its immense versatility, plain yogurt is also an excellent source of protein and probiotics – providing numerous health benefits to those who include it in their regular diet. Unlike many processed food products, it’s generally low-fat, so it won’t have an adverse effect on those following calorie-restricted diets.
Ultimately, the potential for creativity when preparing meals with plain yogurt is nearly boundless. Many people find that incorporating yogurt into their menu adds a unique twist to their home cooking routine. Whether you’re looking for simple snacks or complex dishes, plain yogurt has something special to offer your taste buds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some ways to make plain yogurt taste better?
Using plain yogurt as a base ingredient in recipes is an excellent way to make them healthy and delicious. Here are some ways to make plain yogurt taste better:
- Add honey, agave or other sweetener - A little spoon of sweetness can transform a simple bowl of yogurt into something special.
- Top with fresh fruit and nuts - Adding fresh berries or sliced banana can add variety and texture to your bowl of yogurt and add some crunch with your favorite nuts.
- Add spices and herbs - Experiment with different flavor combinations like cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, ginger and mint for an extra spicy kick.
- Mix in your favorite granola or cereal - This is a great way to add more crunch and sweetness to the yogurt without adding extra sugar.
- Create savory yogurt bowls - Add flavors like sriracha, garlic, dill, oregano, tomato paste, olives, feta cheese etc. for a savory twist.
- Add cocoa powder for a creamy treat - Cocoa powder is a great ingredient for making a chocolate-y version of plain yogurt that feels indulgent but is still healthy. Plus you can customize it with your favorite mix-ins such as nuts or dried fruits.
- Use it as an ingredient in smoothies - Try blending plain yogurt with some frozen fruits or vegetables to make nutritious smoothies that you can sip on any time of day.
What are some creative ways to use plain yogurt in cooking?
Using plain yogurt in cooking is a great way to give dishes an extra flavor and creaminess. Here are some creative ideas for using plain yogurt in recipes:
- Create a creamy vinaigrette dressing by combining equal parts plain yogurt, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar with fresh herbs and seasonings of your choice.
- Transform plain yogurt into an irresistible dip by adding roasted garlic, herbs, and a few drops of lemon juice.
- Whip up a rich and creamy soup starter by slowly simmering onion and minced garlic in vegetable broth then stirring in plain yogurt when finished.
- For a light and flavorful side dish, blend plain yogurt with cooked quinoa or rice and stir in cubes of boiled sweet potatoes, peas and diced carrots.
- Use plain yogurt to marinate meats or vegetables before roasting or baking them.
- Blend plain yogurt with frozen fruit, honey, and cinnamon for a nutritious smoothie bowl.
- Create a tangy tartar sauce by combining equal parts mayonnaise and plain yogurt with finely chopped dill pickles or cucumbers stuffed in a sandwich or wrap bread pocket spread with cream cheese mixed with Greek Yogurt, basil pesto & refreshingly juicy tomatoes for an easy meal!
- Blend together Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) with fresh cherry tomatoes & sprinkle it on top of pizza for an interesting twist on everyone's favorite supper dish!
- Try Greek Yogurt as an icing for cakes! It has the perfect consistency for piped decorations & provides a delicious flavor that will tantalize any palate!
- For breakfast, top off some whole wheat toast with mashed fresh berries mixed with Greek Yogurt sprinkled with chia seeds - delicious & healthy all at once!
How can plain yogurt be used as an ingredient in recipes?
Plain yogurt can be used as an ingredient in recipes because it adds a creamy and tangy flavor to dishes. It can be used as a substitute for mayonnaise or sour cream, making it great for salad dressings, dips, and sauces. Its thick consistency makes it great for baking - adding moisture and lightness to cakes.
Furthermore, plain yogurt works as an excellent marinade for meats and vegetables, as its acidity helps to tenderize the food. Finally, plain yogurt can be used for savory dishes such as tacos or burritos by substituting it for cheese - creating a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor.