If you take a stroll through the supermarket, you’ll quickly notice that the Greek yogurt trend has taken America by storm. The refrigerated section is stocked with countless brands and flavors, but that’s just the start of it – you’ll also find Greek yogurt in the ice cream section, coating energy bars, and even in cereal boxes. So what’s with all the hype?
Greek yogurt is rich, thick-strained, and high in protein. Compared to the “regular” sweetened yogurts many of us grew up with, Greek yogurt is less sweet and has a tangier taste. It is also full of good-for-your-gut probiotics, and is an awesome source of calcium!
Here at uforia, we’re big fans of Greek yogurt. If you stick to varieties low in added sugar, Greek yogurt makes for healthy, convenient snack to fuel up before or after your workout. We recommend choosing plain yogurt and adding your own berries and perhaps a drizzle of honey to limit added sugar. Adding a sprinkling of almond slivers adds some delicious crunch, plus a dose of healthy fat and extra protein.
While we each have our personal favorites, we decided to embark on a quest to uncover the key to Greek yogurt perfection. We tasted our way through a shopping basket full of yogurt from our friendly neighbors at Whole Foods, and emerged with the following list of favorites.
Best Plain:
Fage Total 0%:
100 calories , 7g sugar, and 18g protein per 6oz cup
This one is a favorite in Greece and no wonder; it’s tangy, tart and smooth. The 2% version proved comparable in taste and a little fat is great for an active lifestyle! It’s slightly creamier than the nonfat variety, so it’s a matter of personal preference. Both are great for cooking and baking! Using Greek yogurt as a substitute in recipes that call for sour cream is an easy, healthy swap.
Plain Runners Up:
Brown Cow and Stoneyfield Farms:
80 calories, 5g sugar, and 15 g protein per 5.3oz cup
We also loved the nonfat plain offerings from these organic brands. They have a creamier texture than Fage but offer a similar flavor with only 80 calories per 5.3oz serving.
Best All-Around Flavor:
Brown Cow Vanilla Nonfat Greek Yogurt
110 calories, 13g sugar, and 12g protein per 5.3oz cup.
We love that you can actually see specks of vanilla in this creamy treat. It has a subtle kick of the tang of Greek yogurt, with a sweet finish and only 110 calories! Perfect for those of you who are big fans of our other friendly neighbors at Fraiche.
Best Fruit On The Bottom:
Whole Foods 365 Mango
140 calories, 12 g protein, and 14g sugar per 6oz cup
Two thumbs up! This flavor from the Whole Foods house-brand offers a smooth texture with fresh mango taste – none of that gelatinous texture that often accompanies fruit blended yogurts!
Best Fruit Pairings:
Whole Foods 365 Blueberry Pomegranate:
150 calories, 12g sugar, and 17g protein per 5.3oz cup
This one has a mousse-like texture. It is mild on the “tart” scale, but not overwhelmingly sweet.
Wallaby Organic Greek Low Fat Yogurt with Blueberries:
140 calories, 12 g sugar, and 15g protein per 5.3oz cup
If you can’t add your own fresh blueberries, this one is a good alternative. It tastes fresh and the blueberries on the side don’t seem drenched in syrup, like some other brands. It makes a great dessert alternative or a post-workout snack.