Description

Discover the art of crafting a perfectly balanced, gut-healthy labneh that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. By using a lighter yogurt base and infusing it with bright aromatics, we create a creamy, tangy spread that serves as the perfect canvas for a vibrant topping of herbs, nuts, and heart-healthy olive oil. This recipe isn’t just a dip; it’s a complete, fiber-rich appetizer designed for modern, mindful eating.

Ingredients

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For the Aromatic Labneh Base:

2 cups 454 g low-fat (2%) plain Greek yogurt
½ tsp finely grated lemon zest
⅛ tsp fine sea salt
⅛ tsp garlic powder

For Assembly & Serving:

6 tsp high-quality extra-virgin olive oil
6 tsp toasted (crushed pistachios)
3 tsp za’atar spice blend
Fresh mint or parsley leaves for garnish
3 whole-wheat pita breads (warmed and cut into wedges)
300 g mixed crunchy vegetables (e.g., cucumber spears, bell pepper strips, carrot sticks)

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Instructions

Toast the pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring, until fragrant and slightly deepened in color, 3–4 minutes. Cool, then crush.
In a medium bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon zest, and garlic powder. Fold gently until just combined; rest 5 minutes.
Sprinkle in the salt and fold 2–3 times to distribute evenly.
Line a fine-mesh sieve with a double layer of cheesecloth and set over a deep bowl. Spoon in the yogurt mixture, gather the cloth, and twist into a tight bundle. Refrigerate 18–24 hours. Doneness check: the labneh should be thick, spreadable, and hold a spoon trail.
Unwrap and transfer the labneh to a serving plate or bowl; use the back of a spoon to create swirls or a central well.
Drizzle with olive oil; sprinkle evenly with the toasted pistachios and za’atar. Garnish with mint or parsley. Serve with warm pita and vegetables.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Notes

Nutrition Facts per Serving: Calories: 210 kcal | Total Fat: 8.1 g (Saturated Fat: 1.9 g) | Total Carbs: 24.8 g (Fiber: 3.1 g, Net Carbs: 21.7 g) | Protein: 11.6 g | Sodium: 222 mg

These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients and preparation.

Nutrition

Calories: 210