Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, delicious, and healthy recipe ideas, all featuring plain Greek yogurt as the star ingredient! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and richness of Greek yogurt. From sweet treats like Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mousse and Yogurt and Granola Breakfast Bowl, to savory dishes like Cucumber Yogurt Dip with Herbs and Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a healthy breakfast option, or a tasty dessert, plain Greek yogurt is the perfect base ingredient. And when combined with your favorite fruits, herbs, and spices, the possibilities are endless! So, let’s dive in and explore these 20 creamy plain Greek yogurt recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings and nourish your body.
Greek Yogurt Berry Parfait
Start your day with a refreshing and healthy breakfast by layering Greek yogurt with sweet berries and crunchy granola. This parfait is perfect for any time of the day, whether as a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup granola
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the yogurt mixture into the bottom of a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the mixed berries.
4. Sprinkle with half of the granola.
5. Repeat steps 2-4 to create another layer.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Cucumber Yogurt Dip with Herbs
This light and creamy dip is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cooling treat to pair with your favorite snacks or veggies. The addition of fresh herbs adds a bright and tangy flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and chopped herbs.
2. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled with pita chips, veggies, or crackers.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Honey
Start your day off right with these fluffy and flavorful Greek yogurt pancakes, topped with a drizzle of warm honey. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, egg, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or cooking spray if necessary.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on the number of pancakes).
Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
This refreshing recipe combines the tanginess of yogurt with the smokiness of grilled chicken, creating a flavorful and moist dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this deliciousness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mousse
Experience the perfect balance of rich chocolate and tangy yogurt in this refreshing dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a decadent treat that’s surprisingly light and airy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, heavy cream, and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the cocoa powder and whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Melt the dark chocolate and allow it to cool slightly.
5. Fold the cooled melted chocolate into the yogurt mixture until well combined.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Spinach and Yogurt Smoothie
Kickstart your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie that combines the benefits of spinach, yogurt, and your favorite fruits. This refreshing blend is perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup frozen mango chunks
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the spinach, yogurt, pineapple, and mango to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add honey to taste and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Greek Yogurt Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a classic Greek condiment made with yogurt, cucumber, and dill. This refreshing recipe is perfect for topping gyros, grilled meats, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced fresh cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine yogurt, cucumber, dill, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including chilling time)
Yogurt and Granola Breakfast Bowl
A quick and easy breakfast solution that’s packed with nutritious ingredients. This yogurt and granola bowl is perfect for busy mornings when you need a boost to get going.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats granola
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon the yogurt mixture into a serving bowl.
3. Top with granola, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add mixed berries on top of the granola.
5. Sprinkle a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.
Cooking Time: None! This breakfast is ready in just 5 minutes.
Greek Yogurt Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the tanginess of Greek yogurt to create a moist and flavorful banana bread. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, this bread is also great for packing in lunchboxes or serving as a warm treat after dinner.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup (200g) Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Beat in the egg until well combined.
5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Greek Yogurt Popsicles with Fresh Fruit
Beat the heat with these creamy and fruity popsicles! Made with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit, they’re a healthy and delicious treat perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 10-12 popsicle sticks
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Add the fresh fruit to the bowl and stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Pour the mixture into popsicle molds or small cups.
4. Insert a popsicle stick into each mold.
5. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Enjoy your refreshing Greek yogurt popsicles with fresh fruit!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
Yogurt and Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the comfort of oatmeal with the tanginess of yogurt, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day. With minimal ingredients and simple instructions, you’ll have a batch ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Optional: nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine yogurt, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
6. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bites
These bite-sized cheesecakes are a unique twist on the classic dessert, featuring Greek yogurt for added tanginess and creaminess. Perfect for parties or snacks, these individual treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz Greek yogurt
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter; stir until combined.
3. Press about 1 tbsp of crust mixture into each liner.
4. In a separate bowl, beat yogurt, cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crusts, filling to the top.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Yogurt and Herb Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the tanginess of yogurt with the freshness of herbs for a delightful main course or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the yogurt mixture, leaving some space at the top.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese on top of the peppers, if using.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip
This refreshing dip combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the classic flavors of ranch seasoning, making it perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, lemon juice, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
5. Serve chilled with your favorite dippers, such as carrot sticks, celery, or crackers.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refrigerator-based dip!
Yogurt and Chia Seed Pudding
This simple recipe combines the creamy goodness of yogurt with the nutritional benefits of chia seeds, resulting in a healthy and satisfying snack or dessert. With only a few ingredients and no cooking required, this pudding is perfect for busy days or as a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey (or to taste)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the yogurt and honey until well combined.
2. Add the chia seeds and salt to the yogurt mixture. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and form a gel-like texture.
4. Once the pudding has chilled, give it a good stir before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chill time: 30 minutes – overnight)
Greek Yogurt Garlic Bread Spread
Elevate your bread game with this creamy, savory spread that combines the richness of Greek yogurt with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or straight-up snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Stir in parsley.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Enjoy your delicious Greek Yogurt Garlic Bread Spread!
Yogurt and Lemon Glazed Salmon
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing twist on traditional glaze recipes. The tangy yogurt and lemon combination creates a moist, flavorful salmon dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the yogurt-lemon glaze evenly over each fillet, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flaky, and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Yogurt and Lemon Glazed Salmon!
Greek Yogurt and Berry Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a refreshing and nutritious breakfast bowl packed with protein-rich Greek yogurt, antioxidant-rich berries, and crunchy granola.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the Greek yogurt, mixed berries, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Spoon the smoothie into a bowl.
3. Top with rolled oats and chopped almonds.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yogurt and Cinnamon Baked Apples
Warm up with a deliciously comforting treat – Yogurt and Cinnamon Baked Apples! This simple recipe combines the natural sweetness of apples with the creamy goodness of yogurt and the warmth of cinnamon, creating a perfect dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 apples (any variety), cored
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Fill each apple core with the yogurt mixture, dividing it evenly among the apples.
4. Place the apples on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the apples are tender and the yogurt is caramelized.
6. Serve warm, topped with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get creative with plain Greek yogurt in these 20 healthy recipes! From sweet treats like Greek Yogurt Chocolate Mousse and Greek Yogurt Banana Bread, to savory dishes like Cucumber Yogurt Dip with Herbs and Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken. You’ll also find refreshing smoothies, sauces, and snacks like Spinach and Yogurt Smoothie and Greek Yogurt Popsicles with Fresh Fruit. Plus, get your breakfast on with Yogurt and Granola Breakfast Bowl or satisfy your sweet tooth with Greek Yogurt Cheesecake Bites. The possibilities are endless with these creamy recipes!
