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Ten Delicious Ideas for Plain Yogurt

Ten Delicious Ideas for Plain Yogurt

By Victoria Spencer

May 16, 2014

Credit: Linda Pugliese

You can have it plain, but it's so much better gussied up. Here, 10 recipes that turn plain yogurt into something wonderful.

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Garlic-Herb Yogurt Cheese

Credit: Kate Mathis

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You probably already know plain yogurt topped with fruit and honey is delicious. But did you know the dairy staple also tastes delightful spooned onto spaghetti or blended with cantaloupe, or that it can be added to cake batter? Here, 10 ways to gussy up your plain yogurt.

Turn It into a Cheese Spread

Just like Boursin but healthier, our garlic-herb yogurt cheese is creamy, herby, and highly addictive. Draining the yogurt gives it a thicker consistency; adding garlic and herbs turns it into the perfect accompaniment for crudite and crackers.

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Blend It with Cantaloupe and Honey

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Just three ingredients (four if you count ice) -- cantaloupe, plain yogurt, and honey -- to make one delicious drink.

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Make Ambrosia with It

Credit: Linda Pugliese

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Our twist on the classic dessert swaps out cream for whipped plain Greek yogurt.

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Use It in a Tart

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In lieu of a traditional custard filling for a tart, try this yogurt-based version.

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Make Chaas Out of It

Credit: Jonathan Lovekin

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Lassis aren't the only Indian yogurt beverage. Chaas, a refreshing drink popular in the country's northern region, is thinner than a lassi but just as delicious.

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Mix It into Cake Batter

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Folding plain Greek yogurt into this batter ensures a moist cake with a tender crumb.

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Freeze It for a Cool Treat

Credit: Frederic Lagrange

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It doesn't get any easier -- or more delectable -- than this. Simply fold strawberry jam into plain Greek yogurt, pour into ice-pop molds, and freeze.

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Serve It on Pasta

Credit: Kate Mathis

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Yogurt on spaghetti? You betcha. Instead of pasta with alfredo sauce, try this creamy but light dish with slow-cooked onions, a touch of white wine, parsley -- and a dollop of yogurt to bring it all together.

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Turn It into Panna Cotta

Credit: Kate Mathis

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This favorite Italian sweet is a perfect make-ahead dessert. Instead of using the usual cream, our recipe calls for whisking yogurt into the gelatin mixture, then refrigerating overnight.

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Make a Dip Out of It

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Serve pita chips (or crudites) alongside this tangy, silky dip.

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Ten Delicious Ideas for Plain Yogurt