10+ Plain Greek Yogurt Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals
Plain Greek yogurt is a versatile ingredient that can elevate many dishes. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it perfect for both sweet and savory recipes. Whether you are looking for a healthy breakfast option, a tasty snack, or a unique ingredient to add to your meals, you will find plenty of ideas to inspire you.
Using plain Greek yogurt in your cooking not only adds deliciousness but also boosts your meals with protein and nutrients. From smoothies to dips and baked goods, there’s no shortage of creative ways to incorporate this ingredient into your diet. Get ready to explore some simple and delightful plain Greek yogurt recipes that you can easily make at home.
1) Greek Yogurt Pancakes
Greek yogurt pancakes are a delicious way to start your day. They are fluffy and have a nice tangy flavor. Plus, they are packed with protein, making them a nutritious breakfast option.
To make these pancakes, you’ll need simple ingredients. You can whip them up quickly, and they cook in about 15 minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite toppings like fruit or syrup.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup milk
Cooking Instructions
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt and eggs.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the dry mixture to the yogurt mixture. Stir in milk until smooth.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
- Pour batter onto the skillet. Cook until bubbles form, then flip. Cook until golden brown. Enjoy!
2) Tzatziki Sauce
Tzatziki sauce is a cool and creamy dip that pairs well with many dishes. It’s refreshing and easy to make, perfect for a snack or as a spread.
You’ll need plain Greek yogurt as the main ingredient. This gives tzatziki its rich texture and tangy flavor. You’ll also add grated cucumber, which adds crunch and freshness.
To make it even tastier, include minced garlic, fresh dill or mint, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. This combination creates a delightful dip that’s great with pita, veggies, or grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh dill or mint, minced
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Cooking Instructions
- In a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt and grated cucumber.
- Add the minced garlic, dill or mint, lemon juice, and salt.
- Stir until well combined.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
3) Yogurt-Marinated Chicken
Marinating chicken in plain Greek yogurt adds moisture and flavor. The yogurt helps to tenderize the meat while infusing it with spices.
To make yogurt-marinated chicken, you mix yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite spices. This combination creates a delicious and juicy result when cooked.
You can grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Enjoy a tasty and healthy meal that is sure to please!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional spices (like paprika or thyme) if desired
Cooking Instructions
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s well coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your grill or oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the chicken until it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally. Enjoy!
4) Strawberry Banana Smoothie
A strawberry banana smoothie is a tasty and healthy choice. It’s easy to make and perfect for breakfast or a snack. Using Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a protein boost.
To make your smoothie, blend together frozen strawberries, a frozen banana, and Greek yogurt. You can use almond milk to make it runnier or keep it thick. Feel free to add a bit of honey for sweetness if you like.
This smoothie is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins. It’s a refreshing and nutritious option that you can whip up in just a few minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen strawberries
- 1 frozen banana
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- Optional: honey or sweetener to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Add the frozen strawberries and banana to a blender.
- Pour in the Greek yogurt and almond milk.
- Blend until smooth.
- Taste and add honey if needed.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy!
5) Greek Yogurt Cheesecake
Greek yogurt cheesecake is a delicious and healthier twist on the classic dessert. It combines Greek yogurt with cream cheese for a creamy texture and rich flavor. You can enjoy it without feeling guilty!
For the base, use a simple graham cracker crust. The cheesecake can be topped with fresh fruits like strawberries or cherries. This adds natural sweetness and bright colors.
You will need the following ingredients:
Ingredients
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sugar or honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Press into a springform pan.
- Beat together Greek yogurt, cream cheese, and sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla; mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the crust and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Let it cool before serving, then top with fresh fruit.
6) Yogurt Parfait with Granola
A yogurt parfait with granola is a simple, tasty way to enjoy Greek yogurt. It combines layers of creamy yogurt, crispy granola, and fresh fruit for a delicious breakfast or snack. You can have it ready in just a few minutes.
Start by layering Greek yogurt at the bottom of a glass or bowl. Next, add a layer of granola on top. Then, include your choice of fresh fruits, like berries or sliced bananas. Repeat these layers until you reach the top.
This treat is not only tasty but also healthy. You’ll get protein from the yogurt, fiber from the granola, and vitamins from the fruit.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup granola
- ½ cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, etc.)
- Honey (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Take a glass and layer ½ cup of yogurt at the bottom.
- Add ¼ cup of granola on top of the yogurt.
- Place ¼ cup of mixed berries over the granola.
- Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
- Drizzle honey on top if desired. Enjoy!
7) Frozen Yogurt Bark
Frozen yogurt bark is a simple and delicious treat you can enjoy anytime. Using plain Greek yogurt as the base, you can create a healthy dessert that satisfies your sweet tooth. You can customize it with your favorite toppings.
To make frozen yogurt bark, start by mixing Greek yogurt with a sweetener, like honey or maple syrup. Spread the yogurt on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Add toppings like fresh berries, nuts, or chocolate chips before freezing.
Once it’s solid, simply break it into chunks and enjoy! This is a great way to have a cool snack on warm days.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Toppings: berries, nuts, chocolate chips
Cooking Instructions:
- Preheat your freezer.
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla.
- Spread the mixture on a lined baking sheet.
- Add your favorite toppings.
- Freeze for 3-4 hours or until solid.
- Break into pieces and serve.
8) Cucumber-Yogurt Dip
Cucumber-yogurt dip is a refreshing treat perfect for hot days or as a party snack. It’s easy to make and great with pita bread, fresh veggies, or as a sauce for grilled meats.
To start, you will need plain Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and some herbs for flavor. This dip offers a creamy texture with a crunchy bite from the cucumber.
You can adjust the flavors by adding lemon juice or fresh dill. It’s simple and delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt to taste
Cooking Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, and minced garlic.
- Add the chopped dill and lemon juice.
- Mix everything well and add salt to taste.
- Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
9) Cilantro-Lime Yogurt Dressing
Cilantro-lime yogurt dressing is a fresh and tasty addition to your meals. This creamy dressing is simple to make and perfect for salads or tacos. You’ll love the bright flavors.
To make the dressing, start with plain Greek yogurt for a nice creaminess. Then, add fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of garlic for that zesty kick. It’s a healthy option that brightens up any dish.
This dressing only takes a few minutes to prepare. Just mix all the ingredients in a bowl and enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt and chopped cilantro.
- Add lime juice and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.
10) Avocado Yogurt Dip
Avocado yogurt dip is a tasty and healthy choice for snacks or parties. It combines creamy avocados with plain Greek yogurt for a rich flavor. Plus, it’s quick to make!
You can customize this dip by adding ingredients like garlic, lime juice, or spices. It pairs well with veggies, chips, or even as a spread on sandwiches.
Here’s how to make your own avocado yogurt dip.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe avocado
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- A squeeze of lime juice
- A pinch of garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (more to taste)
Cooking Instructions
- Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit.
- Then, scoop the avocado flesh into a bowl.
- After that, add the Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt.
- Mash everything together until smooth and creamy.
- Last, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy!