Creamy Yogurt Cheese with Spring Herbs and Olive Oil

Creamy Yogurt Cheese with Spring Herbs and Olive Oil Recipe - Vegetarian

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil is a delicious and versatile spread that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a topping for crackers, bread, or vegetables. This recipe combines the tangy flavor of yogurt with the freshness of spring herbs and the richness of olive oil for a creamy and flavorful treat.

History

Yogurt cheese, also known as labneh, has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is made by straining yogurt to remove the whey, resulting in a thick and creamy cheese-like consistency. Adding fresh herbs and olive oil to yogurt cheese is a popular way to enhance its flavor and create a versatile spread that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

Ingredients

2 cups of whole milk yogurt
1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp of finely grated lemon zest
0.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp of chopped fresh chives
1 tsp of chopped fresh thyme
1 tbsp of chopped fresh tarragon
1 tbsp of chopped fresh basil

How to prepare

Line a strainer with a double layer of cheesecloth.
Spoon the yogurt into the strainer and let it drain, suspended over a bowl for at least 2 hours.
Discard the drained liquid.
The longer the yogurt is strained, the thicker the resulting cream.
If you desire a thicker spread, drain the yogurt overnight in the refrigerator.
In a small bowl, whisk the strained yogurt with the olive oil, lemon zest, salt, pepper, chives, thyme, tarragon, and basil.
Let it stand for 15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Variations

Add chopped garlic or shallots for extra flavor.
Mix in chopped nuts or dried fruits for added texture.
Use different combinations of herbs, such as dill, parsley, or cilantro.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a good quality, full-fat yogurt for the best results.

- Strain the yogurt for at least 2 hours to achieve a creamy consistency, or overnight for a thicker spread.

- Let the yogurt cheese sit for 15 minutes after adding the herbs and olive oil to allow the flavors to meld.

- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil as a spread on crackers, bread, or vegetables. It can also be used as a topping for salads or grilled meats.

Cooking Techniques

Straining yogurt to make yogurt cheese is a simple and traditional technique that requires minimal equipment. The key is to allow the yogurt to drain for a sufficient amount of time to achieve the desired consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Greek yogurt can be used instead of regular yogurt for a thicker cheese.

- Lemon juice can be used in place of lemon zest for a tangy flavor.

- Any combination of fresh herbs can be used according to personal preference.

Make Ahead Tips

Creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil in a small bowl drizzled with extra olive oil and garnished with fresh herbs. It can also be spread on a platter with crackers, bread, and vegetables for a beautiful and delicious appetizer.

Pairing Recommendations

Creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil pairs well with fresh vegetables, olives, cured meats, and crusty bread. It can also be served alongside grilled chicken or fish for a light and flavorful meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. Do not freeze.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil contains approximately 80 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil contains approximately 3 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil contains approximately 5 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil is a nutritious and flavorful spread that is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Creamy yogurt cheese with spring herbs and olive oil is a delicious and nutritious spread that is easy to make and versatile to use. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a flavorful and creamy treat that is perfect for snacking, entertaining, or adding a touch of freshness to your meals. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of awe. It was a warm spring day, and I was visiting my friend Maria, who lived in a small village nestled among the rolling hills of Tuscany. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on freshly brewed espresso, Maria pulled out a yellowed piece of parchment paper from a well-worn recipe book.

"This is a family recipe that has been passed down for generations," Maria explained, her eyes sparkling with pride. "It's a simple yet delicious dish that we make every spring when the herbs are at their freshest."

As Maria began to read out the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The combination of creamy yogurt cheese, fragrant spring herbs, and drizzled olive oil sounded like a culinary masterpiece waiting to be created.

With Maria's guidance, I set out to gather the ingredients for the dish. We ventured out into her lush garden, where she pointed out rows of vibrant herbs growing in abundance. I carefully plucked fresh mint, parsley, and chives, savoring the earthy aroma that filled the air.

Back in the kitchen, Maria showed me how to strain thick Greek yogurt to create a creamy cheese-like consistency. As we mixed in the chopped herbs and a generous drizzle of peppery olive oil, the dish came together beautifully, a symphony of colors and flavors dancing before my eyes.

As we sat down to enjoy our creation, the flavors exploded on my palate, each bite a burst of freshness and richness. The creamy yogurt cheese melted in my mouth, complemented perfectly by the aromatic herbs and the tangy olive oil. It was a dish that spoke of tradition, of love, and of the simple joys of cooking with fresh, quality ingredients.

From that moment on, the recipe for Creamy Yogurt Cheese with Spring Herbs and Olive Oil became a staple in my culinary repertoire. I shared it with friends and family, bringing a taste of Tuscany to each gathering and celebration.

Over the years, I continued to refine and perfect the recipe, adding my own twist with a sprinkle of lemon zest or a dash of cracked black pepper. Each time I made it, I was transported back to that sunny spring day in Maria's kitchen, where I first discovered the magic of this dish.

As I grew older and passed the recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I marveled at how food has the power to connect us across generations and cultures. The simple act of sharing a meal, of breaking bread together, can create memories that last a lifetime.

And so, as I sit here now, surrounded by the laughter and chatter of my loved ones, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe and the joy it has brought into my life. It is a reminder of the beauty and richness of the culinary world, a world that continues to inspire and nourish me in ways I never could have imagined.

So, dear reader, I urge you to seek out the recipes that speak to your soul, that ignite a passion for cooking and sharing with others. For in those recipes lies the magic of tradition, of love, and of the simple joys that come from creating something delicious and meaningful with your own two hands.

And who knows, perhaps one day you too will find yourself sitting in a cozy kitchen, sharing a beloved family recipe with someone special, passing on the gift of food and connection for generations to come.