Optimize Nutrition
Thick, rich and tangy, plain Greek yogurt is an optimal substitute for sour cream. This simple ingredient swap can save on calories and saturated fat, while also providing you with much needed protein. If you regularly dollop sour cream on your tacos or baked potato, consider this simple switch. It’s also a great lower fat, higher protein replacement in recipes, like casseroles, dips, or sauces, where you mix in large amounts of sour cream.
In addition to being a good source of protein, Greek yogurt also provides beneficial probiotics. Probiotics feed our healthy gut bacteria (which crowds out the bad bacteria) and can positively impact digestion, the immune system, metabolism, and even mental health. Yogurt is also a good source of potassium. Potassium helps our bodies to get rid of excess sodium, which can help to lower blood pressure.
Make it Your Go-To
If you like dipping veggies or dressing your salad with ranch dressing, this is a great opportunity to substitute with Greek yogurt! You will add more protein to help you feel satisfied, increase heart-healthy potassium, while reducing calories, fat, and maybe even sugar compared to store-bought ranch, or ranch made with sour cream. Here are two recipes to try:
Homemade Greek Yogurt Ranch
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (non-fat or low-fat, your choice)
- 1 Tablespoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Dash of black pepper
- Make it your own with: a splash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chives/green onion, smoked paprika, parsley, squeeze of lemon, apple cider vinegar, or dash of Worcestershire
Or
Super Simple Greek Yogurt Ranch
- 1 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (non-fat or low-fat, your choice)
- 1 pouch powdered Ranch seasoning
Mix all ingredients. Cover and refrigerate for 30 or more minutes for the flavors to really shine through. Eat within 4 days.
