Get Cultured: Three Fresh Ways With Yogurt

By Trish Coffman

Thanks to its high protein content and live active cultures, yogurt is having a nice long moment. But don’t just grab a spoon and dig in. Try these three suggestions for adding more yogurt to your routine.

Tip: Opt for plain yogurt rather than flavored varieties, which are either sweetened with too much sugar or unnatural sweeteners.

Refuel: Top off the tank with a yogurt-based smoothie that offers a blend of carbs and protein.

Try this: In a blender, mix ice, yogurt, banana, peanut or almond butter and coconut water.

Rebuild: Lean protein like that found in Greek yogurt (the yogurt variety with the most protein) helps repair muscles after a crushing training session.

Try this: Mix ½ C Greek yogurt with 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir in 1 tbsp chopped mint or parsley. Use as a dip for hydrating cucumber slices, celery sticks, broccoli florets or whole-grain pita chips.

Refresh: We all like a frozen treat once in a while, especially after a hot ride. Keep it virtuous with a homemade chilled concoction that’s ready by the time you’ve completed your post-ride stretch.

Try this: Combine chilled yogurt (Greek works best) with frozen berries and a swirl of honey. Stir well and place in the freezer for 15-30 minutes, until it’s the consistency of soft-serve ice cream. Also tasty: fresh banana slices, a touch of cocoa powder and instant espresso powder with honey or pure maple syrup.