Greek Yogurt + Stevia = Many Options

I love Greek yogurt. High in protein, low in fat, and so creamy you feel like you’re eating something you shouldn’t be. What’s not to like?

If you haven’t tried it, I encourage you to do so. In addition to being able to make some delicious desserts, you can also use Greek yogurt to substitute for some less-healthy options like mayonnaise and sour cream. Buy the plain variety. Not only will you avoid all the sugar that’s loaded into the flavored varieties, but it’s far more versatile.

There are several sweeteners you can use. Some people like agave and others prefer honey. Both of these are okay. But my absolute favorite is stevia. The brand I use is Kal. I like Kal Stevia Extract Powder because it is nothing but plain stevia, in powder form. Some brands add fiber and other fillers so you can measure the stevia as you would sugar. The reality is that stevia is far stronger than sugar so only a tiny bit is needed. Kal conveniently packs a tiny scoop in the bottle. This scoop seems to be just right for sweetening a 6-ounce container of yogurt.

My favorite brands of Greek yogurst are Fage (I get the 2%) and Oikos (preferably organic). Both these brands have a nice, neutral taste and creamy texture (the Fage is especially creamy). And both are available in most supermarkets.

So, what can you do with Greek yogurt? Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Swap half the mayonnaise in a recipe
2. Swap half the sour cream in a recipe
3. Add some to your morning smoothie
4. Add sliced strawberries and stevia for a healthy but rich-tasting dessert
5. Add chopped walnuts, sliced almonds, pumpkin seed, and toasted oats for a high-protein alternative to cereal
6. Add to your scrambled eggs or omelet

You’re limited only by your imagination. If you get stuck, check out the recipes section of the Fage site.

Bon Appetit!