All About Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt gets its thick, creamy texture by straining it to remove most of its whey content. Famed worldwide for its rich and creamy consistency, as well as its tangy flavor, Greek yogurt is a popular choice for breakfast, snacks, and as an ingredient in various recipes. 

How is Greek yogurt made?

Greek yogurt is made through a process that involves fermenting milk with live bacterial cultures, lie regular yogurt. However, Greek yogurt then goes through an extensive straining process. This remove excess whey and breaks down lactose into lactic acid, giving this yogurt its special tangy flavor.

Greek yogurt vs. regular yogurt

The primary differences between Greek yogurt and regular (basic) yogurt lie in their texture, nutritional content, and production methods. Here are the key distinctions:

Straining Process - Greek yogurt is strained to remove much of the whey whereas traditional or basic yogurt is not typically strained to the same extent. 

Texture & taste - The straining process gives Greek yogurt a denser and creamier texture and a refreshing tangy flavor. Regular yogurt on the other hand, tends to have a smoother but lighter texture and a milder taste compared to Greek yogurt.

Protein Content - Greek yogurt has a higher protein content compared to regular yogurt thanks to the straining process.

Fat Content - Greek yogurt may have a higher fat content compared to some non-Greek yogurts, as the straining process retains more of the milk solids, including fat. However, the fat content in any yogurt can vary based on the type of milk used (whole, low-fat, or skim)

Ultimately, the choice between Greek yogurt and regular yogurt depends on personal preference and dietary considerations. Both varieties can be part of a healthy diet, and the decision may be influenced by taste, texture, and nutritional goals.

Is Greek yogurt healthy?

Due to its higher protein content and lower carbohydrate content compared to regular yogurt, it's often considered a nutritious option. But how nutritious is it? Take a look:

Nutritional profile per serving per 100g low-fat plain Greek yogurt

Check out the full nutritional profile on the USDA site

PS. What you eat your yogurt with will impact the nutritional profile of Greek yogurt. Choose your favorite toppings at our Greek Yogurt Bar here at Greek From Greece!

How to enjoy Greek yogurt

While Greek yogurt has its roots in Greece, it has gained immense popularity worldwide. It has become a staple in many diets due to its nutritional profile and versatility. Tasty and packed with nutrients, you can enjoy it as a side to a meal, a base for a healthy light breakfast or snack or use it in cooking (sweet or savory).

Eat it plain - Greek yogurt has a rich and creamy texture, making it enjoyable on its own. The natural tanginess of the yogurt can be quite satisfying. Greeks often eat it on its own or with a drizzle of honey on top.  

Fruit & nut bowl - For a healthy nutritious breakfast, dessert or protein-rich snack you can add a sprinkling of your favorite nuts, seeds or grains on top, mix in some fruit or fruit preserve. It goes best with sweeter fruit like banana, peach pulp, but we also love it with forest fruit. A drizzle of your preferred jam or fresh Greek honey will seal the sweet deal! These toppings compliment the yogurt's natural flavor and add hints of flavors and sweetness without overwhelming it.

Make a parfait - Layer Greek yogurt with granola, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of honey in a glass or bowl to create a parfait. This not only looks appealing but also adds a variety of flavors and textures.

Use it in smoothies - Greek yogurt makes an excellent base for smoothies. Blend it with your favorite fruits, a splash of milk, and some ice for a refreshing and nutritious drink.

Tzatziki - This iconic Greek dip has a base of Greek yogurt with cucumber, garlic, dill, mint and olive oil. It can be enjoyed as a dip for pita, chips or veggie sticks, spread on a sandwich, or as a side for any dish.

Freshly prepared tzatziki adds a creamy zesty kick to this delicious gyro combo meal

Love tzatziki? Grab this handy recipe and learn more about the 7 most popular Greek dips!

Baking & savory dishes - Greek yogurt can also be used in baking and as an addition to savory dishes. Use it to make yogurt muffins, as a topping for baked potatoes, mix it into dips and sauces, or even as a substitute for sour cream in various recipes.