Greek Yogurt - Not Just For GREEKS!!

Greek yogurt - it's all the rage! OPA! Many people are doing a lot of research on the difference between Greek yogurt and the yogurt we have been used to and eating for many years. Many thought that - well, yogurt was yogurt.  Of course, if it's Greek food, it's better - right?

Why choose the Greek yogurt? The Greek Yogurt is somewhat different than the regular yogurt because it is strained. This “straining” process for yogurt started on the Crete Islands. Greek yogurt is thicker, creamier and has a completely different texture than other yogurts. There are no stabilizers used or added and no gelatin additions. So, Greek yogurt is more pure, if you will - than the processed yogurt products we're used to here in the States.

And here's the best benefit - Greek yogurt is full of protein (double the protein than the normal yogurt!) and is packed with probiotics. Greek yogurt is very low fat and healthy because it has B6, B12 and calcium.

Greek Yogurt is usually made from sheep milk and not from cow milk because the Greeks believe it gives the yogurt a better taste. In Greek cuisine, cow milk is used occasionally but not as often as sheep’s milk.

Greek yogurt is used in Tzatziki dip (which we're famous for, and use in our award-winning Greek salad and MORE... AND - where we get our name!) and can be served with fruits, nuts and honey. Raisins top off yogurt as a sweet treat and often used as a dessert! The Greek yogurt is a lovely Greek addition to your meals.

FALL in Love With Greek Food

In the coming weeks, the leaves will start changing to bright reds and oranges, and the season that brought incredible heat to the south and storms to the northeast will come to an end. The days of hot dogs at ballgames and hamburgers on the grill are slowly winding down, so try something new.... Go Greek!

The Greeks love to cook (OPA!) and make large use of several wonderful ingredients in their Fall Greek dishes - including the Mediterranean cuisine staple: olives and olive oil.

Olives are very important in Greek cuisine because of its roots to Greek history - and of course, it's dietary benefits. Ancient Greeks used to eat olives because they believe it was good for keeping their body healthy and full of life. Greek olive oil is also extremely tasty and smooth. It is often taken from privately owned pressing plans, the best come from Lesvos!

Another Fall favorite in Greece is Kalamarakia - or 'calamari', which is squid. Adding orange wedges, cumin, pasta or rice can seal the meal and add a delightful white wine (also known as kalamarakia krasata) is a family favorite.