20 Delicious Ways to Use Yogurt Beyond Breakfast

Yogurt is a versatile ingredient that can do so much more than just sit in your fridge as a snack or breakfast option. From adding a tangy touch to marinades and creating creamy dressings to whipping up no-bake desserts, yogurt is your go-to for transforming everyday recipes into something special. Here are 20 creative ways to use yogurt in your cooking and baking, making it an essential part of your kitchen repertoire.

Marinade for Vegetables

Coat your favorite vegetables in a yogurt-based marinade before roasting or grilling. The yogurt helps the spices adhere to the veggies and adds a rich, tangy flavor.

Creamy Salad Dressing

Blend yogurt with herbs, lemon juice, and olive oil for a light and creamy salad dressing. It’s a simple way to elevate your greens with a fresh, zesty twist.

Smoothie Base

Swap out milk with yogurt in your smoothies for a thicker, creamier texture. It adds a subtle tang that pairs well with fruits like berries, mango, or banana.

Baking Substitute

To add moisture and tang to baking recipes, use yogurt as a substitute for sour cream or buttermilk. It works wonders in cakes, muffins, and even quick breads.

Topping for Baked Potatoes

Replace sour cream with yogurt as a topping for baked potatoes. Add chives, bacon bits, or cheese for extra flavor and a creamy finish.

Dips and Spreads

Mix yogurt with spices and herbs to create a variety of dips and spreads. Serve with veggies, chips, or crusty bread for an easy appetizer.

Raita for Indian Meals

Yogurt is the main ingredient in raita, a cooling condiment served with spicy Indian dishes. Mix it with cucumber, cumin, and fresh cilantro to create a refreshing side dish.

Pancake and Waffle Batter

Add yogurt to your pancake or waffle batter for a fluffier and richer result. The tangy flavor complements the sweetness of syrups and fresh fruits.

Frozen Yogurt

Make your own frozen yogurt by blending yogurt with your favorite fruits and a touch of sweetener, then freezing. It’s a healthier and customizable alternative to store-bought ice cream.

Soup Garnish

Use a dollop of yogurt to garnish soups like tomato soup or lentil soup for a creamy finish. It adds a rich texture without overpowering the soup’s flavor.

Breakfast Parfait

Layer yogurt with granola, fresh fruits, and a drizzle of honey for a quick and easy breakfast parfait. This versatile option can be made ahead of time for busy mornings.

Substitute for Mayonnaise

For a lighter twist, swap mayonnaise with yogurt in recipes like chicken salad, macaroni salad, coleslaw, or dressings. The tangy flavor of yogurt provides a refreshing contrast to richer ingredients.

Tzatziki Sauce

Make a classic tzatziki sauce by combining yogurt with grated cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill. Perfect for dipping or as a topping, this sauce pairs well with grilled meats and veggies.

Mashed Potatoes

Stir yogurt into mashed potatoes for a creamy texture with a slight tang. It enhances the flavor while keeping the dish light and fluffy.

Pasta Sauce Base

Use yogurt as a base for pasta sauces, especially in dishes like stroganoff or creamy tomato pasta. It adds a rich and velvety texture without the heaviness of cream.

Baked Goods

Incorporate yogurt into cakes, muffins, or quick breads to add moisture and a subtle tang. It also helps to keep baked goods tender and soft.

Yogurt Bark

Spread yogurt on a baking sheet, sprinkle with nuts, berries, and chocolate chips, then freeze. Break into pieces for a crunchy, refreshing snack that’s perfect for warm days.

Layered Yogurt Cake

Use yogurt to create a no-bake layered cake by alternating yogurt with layers of crushed cookies or cake crumbs and fresh fruit. Refrigerate for a few hours before serving for a light and delightful dessert.

Substitute for Heavy Cream

Use yogurt in place of heavy cream in sauces, soups, or curries to achieve a rich texture without the extra fat. It provides a luscious, creamy consistency with a hint of tartness.

Fruit Dip

Mix yogurt with a bit of honey and vanilla extract to create a simple and delicious dip for fresh fruits. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing option for parties or a healthy snack.