Creamy Greek Yogurt with Herbs

This creamy Greek Yogurt Dip transforms ordinary vegetables into an irresistible snack. Made with protein-packed yogurt and fresh herbs, it's my go-to healthy alternative to store-bought dips that's just as delicious but without the preservatives or excess calories.

I initially created this recipe when hosting a summer gathering where several guests were watching their calorie intake. It was such a hit that it's now requested at every family function, and my children actually eat their vegetables without complaint when this dip is available.

Ingredients

• 2 cups plain non-fat Greek yogurt: thick and creamy base that provides protein without excess fat
• 3 tablespoons finely minced fresh parsley: adds bright color and subtle flavor
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh dill: provides distinctive tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the yogurt
• 4 teaspoons apple cider vinegar: gives a pleasant tang and helps thin the consistency
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder: adds savory depth without the harsh bite of fresh garlic
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: provides subtle onion flavor without texture interruptions
• 1 teaspoon sea salt plus more to taste: enhances all the flavors
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste: adds gentle heat and complexity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Base Ingredients:

Pour the Greek yogurt into a medium mixing bowl. The texture should be thick and creamy. If your yogurt seems watery, strain it through cheesecloth for about 30 minutes before using. Add all remaining ingredients including the fresh herbs, vinegar, spices, and seasonings. The fresh herbs should be very finely minced for the best texture throughout the dip.

Mix Thoroughly:

Use a silicone spatula to fold everything together, making sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients completely. The mixture will look speckled with green from the herbs and will have a thick, creamy consistency. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed, though remember the flavors will develop significantly during chilling.

Chill and Develop Flavors:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the dip to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight. This resting time is crucial as it allows the herbs to release their flavors and the powdered seasonings to fully hydrate and blend with the yogurt. The dip will taste rather bland immediately after mixing but transforms wonderfully during chilling.

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The fresh dill in this recipe is truly transformative. The first time I served this dip without it, using only parsley, everyone noticed something was missing. That distinctive dill flavor reminds me of the traditional tzatziki my grandmother used to make, though this version is much simpler and quicker to prepare.

Perfect Pairings

This versatile dip works beautifully with various dippers beyond just raw vegetables. Serve it alongside warm pita triangles, crispy pita chips, or whole grain crackers for a more substantial appetizer. For a beautiful presentation, hollow out a round loaf of bread to create an edible bowl, then surround it with colorful vegetables and bread pieces for dipping.

Make It Your Own

While this recipe specifies non-fat Greek yogurt, you can easily substitute low-fat or full-fat varieties depending on your dietary preferences. The full-fat version creates an exceptionally rich dip that's closer to traditional sour cream-based versions. For herbs, consider adding chopped chives, basil, or oregano to create your own signature blend. Mediterranean flavors work particularly well, but don't be afraid to experiment with additions like lemon zest, crumbled feta, or even a touch of cumin for a different flavor profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your dip seems too thick after chilling, simply thin it with a tablespoon or two of milk, stirring well after each addition until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if your dip seems too thin, you can strain the yogurt before mixing in the other ingredients or add more yogurt to thicken. Remember that the dip will continue to thicken slightly as it chills, especially if using traditional Greek yogurt which naturally continues to release whey.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use full-fat Greek yogurt instead of non-fat?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat or full-fat Greek yogurt based on your preference. Both options work well.

→ How long does the dip need to chill?

The dip should chill for at least 4 hours, but ideally 8 hours or overnight for optimal flavor development.

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried herbs can be substituted for fresh herbs. Keep in mind that dried herbs are about three times more potent than fresh.

→ What can I serve with this dip?

This dip pairs wonderfully with raw vegetables, pita wedges, or even whole-grain crackers for a healthy snack.

→ How can I thin out the dip if it's too thick?

If the dip becomes too thick after chilling, stir in a tablespoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.