The Joy that is Greek Yogurt

Growing up I ate a lot of yogurt but it was the runny, sugary kind that kids love.  It wasn't until 2005 when I read the book, French Women Don't Get Fat, by Mireille Guiliano, that I discovered Greek yogurt and all its glory.  In the book, one of the things Mireille says is that French women eat two cups of plain Greek yogurt a day, and that it's thick, creamy and delicious.  I knew I had to try it.  Even though I have not yet traveled to France, I know the allure of French women is that they are sexy and chic.  And, I've seen plenty of French films which all depict them as nothing less than gorgeous, cigarettes and all!  Nonetheless, I was hooked on the stuff.  Whether or not it was going to make me sexy and chic, or keep me from getting fat like it does the French, I knew Greek yogurt was in my life for good.

Greek yogurt is triple-strained which removes most of the water, making it thick, creamy and dense.  It is loaded with protein and low in calories.  The live bacteria in yogurt aids in digestion and helps protect you against other harmful bacteria. I prefer the taste of the 2% over the non-fat version and I always buy it plain and add fruit, nuts and a drizzle of honey.  This makes for an excellent breakfast.  My favorite is with raspberries, walnuts, and golden flax.  I tend to favor FAGE and Chobani, but there are many other good ones on the market: Yoplait Greek, Oikos by Dannon and Athenos - to name a few.  It's really a matter of personal preference.

Greek yogurt can be used in a variety of ways; it can be incorporated into baked goods, desserts and savory dishes as it's the perfect substitute for sour cream.  I will explore all of its glorious uses throughout the life of this blog.  I LOVE Greek yogurt! 

"The Greatest Wealth is Health" - Roman Poet Virgil