What to do with leftover yoghurt

Understanding how different yoghurts last is key to minimising waste. Greek yoghurt, known for its thick texture, generally has a longer shelf life compared to its plain or flavoured counterparts. Store yoghurt in its original packaging or an airtight container in the fridge's coldest part to extend its life. Remember, the fresher your yoghurt, the better its versatility in recipes.

Freezing yoghurt changes its texture, making it ideal for specific uses. For smoothies or cooking, frozen yoghurt adds a creamy texture without altering the flavour profile much. Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Thawed yoghurt is best used in cooked or baked dishes, as the texture may not be ideal for direct consumption.

01

Frozen yoghurt

Transform your leftover yoghurt into frozen treats. This is an excellent way to use up yoghurt nearing its expiry and create a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream. Mix yoghurt with fruit like strawberries or mangoes, a drizzle of honey, or even some chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Freeze in moulds for an easy snack. Remember, the higher the fat content in the yoghurt, the creamier and richer the frozen dessert will be.

02

Smoothies

Utilise leftover yoghurt to add a creamy, tangy dimension to your smoothies. It's not only a great way to reduce food waste but also boosts your smoothie's protein content. Yoghurt pairs wonderfully with a range of fruits – from the tartness of berries to the tropical sweetness of pineapple. For a thicker post workout morning shake or afternoon snack, use Greek yoghurt. Add a spoonful of nut butter or a sprinkle of oats for extra richness and texture.

03

Dressings

Create your own yoghurt-based dressings for a healthier, tangy alternative to store-bought ones. Mix yoghurt with olive oil, lemon juice, any leftover herbs and spices for a versatile dressing. Yoghurt dressings work beautifully with leafy greens, roasted vegetables, or as a creamy drizzle over grilled chicken. For a Greek-style dressing, add some cucumber and dill, or go for a Middle Eastern touch with some tahini and garlic or a dollop of harissa.

04

Dips

Yoghurt is a fantastic base for a variety of dips, perfect for last-minute entertaining. Mix it with herbs, garlic and lemon juice for a classic tzatziki, or add some leftover veggies like roasted red peppers and walnuts or grilled eggplant for a hearty dip perfect for a grazing platter. These dips are not only tasty but also a great way to use up small amounts of herbs and spices in your pantry or any leftover veggies in the fridge.

05

Baking

Yoghurt can be a game-changer in baking and is the perfect substitute if you’re missing butter. It adds moisture and a slight tang to cakes, muffins, flatbreads and even these easy air fryer bagels. Substitute buttermilk or sour cream for yoghurt  in recipes for a healthier option. Greek yoghurt works well in denser bakes like coffee cakes or banana bread, creating a rich texture. For lighter bakes like muffins or cupcakes, regular yoghurt adds a nice balance without weighing down the batter.

06

Sauces

Enrich your sauces with the addition of yoghurt. It’s a great way to add creaminess to curries, soups or pasta sauces without the heaviness of cream. For a quick pasta sauce, mix yoghurt with some pesto or sun-dried tomatoes. Yoghurt can also be used to tenderise meats in marinades – mix it with spices and herbs, and let your meat soak in the flavours before cooking.

07

Toppings

Yoghurt makes for a versatile topping. It's perfect for adding a creamy element to spicy dishes, balancing out the heat, or as a healthier alternative to sour cream. Dollop it on chilli, tacos or baked potatoes. Sweeten it with a bit of honey or maple syrup for a dessert topping, or add cucumber and mint for a refreshing touch to savoury dishes.

08

Breakfast pot

Start your day the right way with a healthier yoghurt-based breakfast. Layer yoghurt with granola, fruit and a drizzle of honey for a simple yet satisfying parfait. Yoghurt can also be the base for overnight oats or chia seed pudding – mix with milk, oats or chia seeds, and your choice of sweetener, and let it sit overnight. The result is a creamy, hearty breakfast that’s ready to go in the morning.