My Big NonFat Greek Yogurt

WEEK 2: On the Path to Finding My Kefi

Bonjour everyone! It is so nice to wake up to a very sunny day – even at 5:30 AM the sun was shining and I was off and running – literally. I was out the door by 5:25 AM to run my typical 4-5 miles before heading to work. It was an awesome run and I’m sure part of this was due to the sunshine and the fact that I was anticipating a great breakfast.

A NEW WEEK, A NEW YOGURT

I admit, I am a creature of habit. But I am slowly trying to break out of this rut – taking new running routes, shopping at different stores, and trying new foods. So in my search for “new” I just have to share with you my new awesome discovery – Greek yogurt! This may not be new to everyone, but it is definitely new to me. I have seen it in the store for years and merely thought it was a “gourmet” yogurt that cost 3 times the amount of regular yogurt – no yogurt could be worth over $2.00 a serving – could it?

I eat yogurt 2-3 times a week and have grown accustomed to Dannon’s full-fat vanilla yogurt. But when I was grocery shopping over the weekend I thought I’d give the Greek version a whirl, after all, I am trying to be more daring these days. Surprisingly, I have been to the Mediterranean and have eaten yogurt there – but for some reason, it was not Greek yogurt – go figure!

Stoneyfield's Oikos Greek Yogurt in Vanilla

WHAT IS GREEK YOGURT?

Greek yogurt is a blend of cream and milk, so often times it has a much higher percentage of milk fat compared with regular whole milk yogurts. That’s why I chose the nonfat version! But, the biggest difference between Greek yogurt and regular or “American” yogurt really comes in the straining process. Greek yogurt goes through a repeat straining process which eliminates water, resulting in a denser, creamier, custard-like consistency. In addition to all the typical benefits of yogurt (calcium, potassium, etc.), because of its density, Greek yogurt packs nearly twice the protein of American yogurt and has less sugar and carbohydrates. 

MY FIRST GREEK YOGURT

For my first attempt at Greek yogurt, I bought Stoneyfield’s Oikos (Organic nonfat yogurt). I had major second thoughts when I saw the price – $2.39 for a 5.3 oz container. Yikes! considering my usual yogurt is $0.50 a container. I selected the vanilla flavor (they also have honey and blueberry) but realized I should have tasted the unflavored version first, to get a true idea of the original taste. Oh well, vanilla it was.  

After my run this morning, I geared up for my soon-to-be great breakfast and Greek yogurt experience. I pulled back the top of the container (sorry I do not have a photo of an open container) and was a little skeptical. The color was a little grey and the it just looked different than my normal yogurt. As I began to spoon the yogurt into my parfait glass I immediately noticed the yogurt was MUCH thicker than Dannon’s – yet still very creamy and much to the consistency of soft cream cheese. 

Homemade walnut granola - perfect for a yummy Greek Yogurt Parfait

THE FIRST BITE

In my first bite, I could taste the tart foreign flavor. As the flavor mixed with the granola and fresh berries, I was overwhelmingly and pleasantly surprised at the abundance of flavor that was packed into this new treat! Although I could taste the vanilla, it was barely a hint – possibly overpowered by the granola and berries. What I did taste was a rich, creamy, buttery flavor that just melted in my mouth. It was so yummy, I ate the whole parfait in about 5 minutes! Lovely and super delish! I was left feeling completely satisfied, both with my selection of yogurt and with the idea that I tried something new and semi-exotic.

Breakfast - Greek Yogurt Parfait

THE GREEK VERDICT

If you are even a partial fan of American yogurt, I would definitely recommend trying Greek yogurt when your budget allows (you can get coupons online!). Although I tried only one brand, I’ve heard Fage Greek yogurt is wonderful and I’ve heard the same about Trader Joe’s version.

GREEK YOGURT PARFAIT

Although I’ve made yogurt parfaits with Dannon and other yogurt brands, here is the recipe for Greek Yogurt Parfait with homemade granola (about 250 calories):

• 1 5.3 oz container Greek yogurt (any flavor)
• 1/4-1/2 cup fresh berries
• 1/4 cup homemade or au natural granola

Starting with a spoonful of yogurt on the bottom, layer the ingredients until they’re gone. Garnish with a few fresh berries on top and enjoy!

Hmmm, what’s next for the girl in search of her kefi? Only time will tell….

Ciao!