Plain yogurt is healthy, and it is usually cheaper than flavored varieties and contains far less fat and calories, but it is tasteless. I have purchased plain yogurt in an effort to save fat, calories, and money, but unless I am making smoothies, I usually find ways jazz it up to add flavor and make it more palatable. Plain yogurt can be mixed with a variety of ingredients that add flavor and texture without adding a lot of fat and calories. Why buy more expensive varieties of yogurt that include add-ins? The following ideas on ways to add flavor to plain yogurt will help you get started on jazzing up this healthy and versatile food while saving money in the process.
Jam or Jelly
Strawberry jam stirred into a container of plain yogurt is tasty, and it will add just the right amount of sweetness and flavor. However, any variety from apricot to gooseberry jam can be used to add flavor to plain yogurt. Even a teaspoon of grape jelly will add flavor and turn a plain serving of yogurt into a tasty treat.
Adding peanut butter to yogurt might sound disgusting to some, but I love peanut butter, and I could eat it on almost anything. Try stirring a tablespoon of peanut butter into a serving of plain yogurt. Those that love peanut butter will be pleasantly surprised by the flavor and uniquely thick texture.
Chocolate Drink Mix
Browse the dairy case shelves and you will find a few brands and varieties of chocolate flavored yogurt, but why buy chocolate varieties that are hardly more than a puff of wind and way overpriced? Stir in enough chocolate drink mix to add just the right amount of flavor and sweetness. It will save money over expensive brands, and you will be able to add flavor without compromising the texture.
Cereal
Some of the most expensive brands and varieties of yogurt include stir-ins that look like cereal and colorful sprinkles. To enhance the flavor and texture of plain varieties, stir in your favorite cereal and skip the sprinkles. Candy sprinkles are generally added only for color and add virtually no flavor. Everything from granola to chocolate rice cereal will add tremendous texture and flavor.
To enhance plain yogurt with texture and flavor, stir in a handful of dried fruit. Cranberries, cherries, apricot bits, and dried banana chips are all fantastic ways to add flavor. Even a small handful of raisins can add flavor and natural sweetness to plain varieties.
Pre-Sweetened Drink Mix
Drink mix tubes that are meant for bottles of water can also be used to add color and unique flavors to plain yogurt. Choose a pre-sweetened drink mix and pour in as much or as little as desired. Experiment with various flavors and amounts. Get really creative by layering various colors and flavors in a clear bowl. This is a fantastic way to not only add taste to plain yogurt, but also to turn it into a healthy and colorful dessert to share with family and friends.
