Get ready to unleash your inner culinary creativity with these 20 mouthwatering recipes that feature creamy plain yogurt as the star ingredient! From sweet treats like Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Honey Drizzle and Lemon Yogurt Cake with Glaze, to savory dishes such as Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken and Turmeric Yogurt Roasted Vegetables, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast solution or a show-stopping dessert, these creamy plain yogurt recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Whether you use it as a base for smoothies, a topping for baked goods, or a substitute for sour cream or mayonnaise, plain yogurt is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can elevate a wide range of dishes. And with its numerous health benefits, including high-quality protein and probiotics, you’ll be doing your body (and taste buds) a favor by incorporating it into your cooking routine.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy plain yogurt recipes and explore all the creative ways you can use this humble ingredient to create delicious meals and treats for any occasion. So grab a spoon and let’s get started!
Greek Yogurt Pancakes with Honey Drizzle
Start your day off right with these moist and flavorful pancakes, infused with the tanginess of Greek yogurt and sweetened with a drizzle of pure honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
– Honey for drizzling (about 2 tablespoons)
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, flour, sugar, eggs, and baking powder until smooth.
3. Grease the pan with butter or oil.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
5. Flip the pancake and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on number of pancakes).
Cucumber Mint Yogurt Dip
Beat the heat with this light and zesty dip that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings. This refreshing treat combines the sweetness of cucumbers, the brightness of mint, and the creaminess of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped cucumber and mint leaves.
2. Blend until smooth, then transfer the mixture to a bowl.
3. Add the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and salt. Mix until well combined.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve with pita chips, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken
Add a tangy twist to your grilled chicken with this simple and flavorful recipe. A yogurt-based marinade tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Blueberry Yogurt Smoothie Bowl
Kick-start your day with a refreshing and nutritious Blueberry Yogurt Smoothie Bowl! This sweet treat combines the natural sweetness of blueberries, creamy yogurt, and crunchy granola for a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen blueberries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 2 tablespoons rolled oats and chopped almonds for topping (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Combine blueberries, yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, adding almond milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with rolled oats and chopped almonds, if using.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Enjoy your delicious Blueberry Yogurt Smoothie Bowl!
Garlic Yogurt Flatbread
This recipe combines the creaminess of yogurt with the pungency of garlic, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic flatbread perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions and roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Brush the flatbread with olive oil, then spread minced garlic evenly over the surface.
6. Drizzle yogurt over the garlic layer, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
7. Fold the edges of the flatbread to form a crust and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Yogurt and Herb Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creamy tang of yogurt with fresh herbs for a deliciously savory main dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, parsley, dill, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the yogurt mixture, filling to the top.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Yogurt Cake with Glaze
Brighten up your day with this refreshing Lemon Yogurt Cake, topped with a tangy and sweet glaze. This moist and flavorful cake is perfect for springtime gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, yogurt, eggs, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before glazing. Whisk together powdered sugar and lemon juice to form the glaze. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Spiced Yogurt Rice Pilaf
This aromatic pilaf combines fluffy rice with the creamy richness of yogurt, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt to the saucepan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Add the yogurt and 2 cups of water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Yogurt Parfait with Granola and Berries
Start your day off right with this simple and delicious yogurt parfait recipe. Layering creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and sweet berries creates a satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup granola
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, layer the yogurt and granola.
2. Top with fresh berries.
3. Drizzle with honey, if desired, for an extra touch of sweetness.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Chilled Yogurt and Avocado Soup
This creamy and cooling soup is perfect for hot summer days. With the combination of tangy yogurt and rich avocado, you’ll be refreshed and rejuvenated in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the yogurt, broth, and lemon juice to the blender.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This soup is served cold.
Enjoy your refreshing and delicious Chilled Yogurt and Avocado Soup!
Yogurt-Based Caesar Salad Dressing
This recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic Caesar dressing by replacing traditional mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. The result is a creamy, tangy dressing that’s perfect for topping your favorite salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dressing is ready in just a few minutes of blending.
Yogurt and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
These savory bites combine the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the tanginess of yogurt and the freshness of spinach. Perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushrooms (such as portobello or cremini), cleaned and stems removed
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together yogurt, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the yogurt-spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turmeric Yogurt Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy side dish that brings together the brightness of turmeric with the creaminess of yogurt, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and sweet potatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated turmeric
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, turmeric, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and a pinch of salt.
5. Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and toss with the yogurt mixture to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Yogurt and Banana Ice Cream
A refreshing and healthy dessert perfect for warm weather! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the tanginess of yogurt to create a creamy and delicious ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 ripe bananas
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Add the yogurt and blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– 30 minutes in an ice cream maker
– 2-3 hours in a freezer without an ice cream maker (stirring every 30 minutes)
Note: If using a freezer method, be sure to stir the mixture every 30 minutes until it reaches desired consistency.
Yogurt and Chia Seed Pudding
This simple recipe combines the creaminess of yogurt with the nutritional benefits of chia seeds, making for a healthy and delicious snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the chia seeds and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the yogurt and honey (or maple syrup). Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the chia seed mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to absorb and thicken the mixture.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with your choice of toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Herbed Yogurt Potato Salad
A refreshing twist on classic potato salad, this recipe combines the creaminess of yogurt with the brightness of fresh herbs for a light and flavorful side dish perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Boil the diced potatoes until tender, then drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, dill, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooled potatoes to the yogurt mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including boiling time)
Yogurt and Coconut Curry Sauce
This versatile sauce is perfect for topping naan bread, serving as a dip, or using as a base for curries. The combination of yogurt, coconut milk, and spices creates a rich and creamy flavor profile that’s both tangy and aromatic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt
– 1/2 cup canned coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if desired.
4. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None! This sauce is ready in just a few minutes.
Yogurt and Beetroot Hummus
A creative twist on traditional hummus, this Yogurt and Beetroot Hummus combines the creaminess of yogurt with the natural sweetness of beetroot. Perfect as a dip for pita chips or vegetables, or as a topping for grilled meats or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked beetroot
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, cumin, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked beetroot, yogurt, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with paprika or other spices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yogurt and Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Start your day with a deliciously creamy and comforting bowl of yogurt and cinnamon overnight oats. This easy recipe requires just a few simple ingredients and can be prepared the night before for a quick breakfast in the morning.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped nuts or fruit for topping
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, yogurt, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Cover the jar with a lid and refrigerate overnight (at least 4 hours or up to 8 hours).
3. In the morning, give the mixture a stir and add any desired toppings such as chopped nuts or fruit.
4. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None – simply prepare the night before and serve in the morning.
Yogurt and Pomegranate Chia Smoothie
Start your day with a refreshing and nutritious smoothie packed with the goodness of yogurt, pomegranate, and chia seeds. This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup frozen pomegranate juice
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the yogurt, pomegranate juice, and chia seeds.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey to taste and blend until well combined.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get creative with plain yogurt in these 20 delicious recipes! From sweet treats like lemon yogurt cake and banana ice cream to savory dishes like yogurt-marinated grilled chicken and turmeric roasted vegetables, there’s something for every occasion. Indulge in breakfast favorites like Greek yogurt pancakes and herbed yogurt potato salad, or enjoy a refreshing snack with cucumber mint yogurt dip and blueberry yogurt smoothie bowl. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dessert or a flavorful sauce, these creamy recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure!
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