What is greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt is made using the same process as traditional yogurt but it is strained to remove more liquid. The additional straining results in a thicker yogurt, which can be used for cooking in many different ways. 

Nutrition 

Greek yogurt provides a lot of nutrition whether eating it as a snack or as part of a meal. Greek yogurt is high in protein with about 22 grams of protein per cup, more than twice the amount as regular yogurt. Protein is important for building and maintaining muscle, bones, and skin. Protein also does a great job of satisfying your hunger until your next meal or snack. 

Like regular yogurt, Greek yogurt has probiotics, which are healthy bacteria that live in your intestines. Probiotics can help strengthen your immune system and improve some digestive problems. And like other dairy products, Greek yogurt is a great source of calcium. Calcium is important for bone and teeth health. When shopping, nonfat Greek yogurt is the best choice because it has all the benefits of Greek yogurt without any saturated fat. 

As an ingredient

Have you ever tried adding Greek yogurt when baking? Greek yogurt adds flavor, creaminess, and moisture to breads, cakes, and other baked goods. The natural acidity of Greek yogurt also interacts with baking soda to help baked goods rise. Try it out when making Southern Chicken Cornbread Casserole or Peanut Butter Chocolate Cookies.

Greek yogurt is a protein-packed substitute for butter in traditional creamy side dishes like mashed potatoes! Using nonfat plain Greek yogurt will add flavor and creaminess without the saturated fat found in butter. Try it out with ONIE’s Cheesy Southwest Mashed Potatoes or for an even lighter dish, try Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes.

If you are a fan of sour cream, nonfat plain Greek yogurt has the same sour taste and creamy texture but with more protein and calcium. These qualities make it great in dressing and dip like in a Southwest Salad with Creamy Cilantro Dressing or in Homemade Ranch Dip.

For more ways to use this simple ingredient, search for “Greek yogurt” in the recipe search bar at onieproject.org/recipes.