Broccoli Cupcake

Personally, I enjoy trying new foods, but in a house full of picky eaters we’ve become creatures of habit. When I find something healthy that works for my family I’m pretty loyal. In fact, anyone who really knows me can probably make a grocery list with most of our staples. For awhile now, Little Blends organic yogurts with fruits and veggies have been part of that list. But recently I haven’t been able to find it at my grocery store. So this week I spent 10 minutes reading yogurt labels and trying to decide what to buy to replace it. Exciting right? Long story short, I was intrigued by Greek yogurt and I’ve heard it’s great for you, but I wasn’t sure why. So I did some research.

The information I found was a little confusing. Some versions come from cow’s milk, others come from ewe or goat’s milk. The fat contents vary, the sugar and calorie contents vary. But the one fact that was consistent and defines yogurt as “Greek” or Greek style is the straining process. This process takes a lot of the water out of the yogurt making it richer, creamier and according to many tastier. From a nutritional perspective, it has significantly more protein, and most brands are all natural. It’s suitable for diabetics, pregnant women and those on a gluten-free diet. You can also use it to cook because it doesn’t separate at high-temperatures. Like anything, you have to read the labels, but here are the highlights and the reasons why I’m giving Greek yogurt a try:
- Twice the protein.
- No fat. No cholesterol.
- All natural. No artificial flavors or preservatives.
- No synthetic growth hormones.
- Several types of probiotics.

The containers are larger than traditional yogurt and they cost slightly more, but check out the popular brand websites and you can usually find a coupon. Buy it plain and add honey, cinnamon, nuts or fruit to make your own flavors.

Enjoy!