Elevate your appetizer game with this heart-healthy labneh with olive oil—a creamy, tangy spread made from strained low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt. Perfect for those seeking a health-conscious yet indulgent dish, this recipe blends the refreshing tartness of labneh with a luxurious drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and aromatic zaatar spices. Finished with crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick and fresh mint leaves for a burst of herbal brightness, this Middle Eastern-inspired delicacy is as nutritious as it is delicious. Ready in just 10 minutes of prep (plus overnight straining), it’s perfect as a dipping companion for whole-grain pita, fresh veggies, or a wholesome sandwich spread. Rich in protein and healthy fats, this recipe delivers both flavor and wellness—an irresistible duo!
Line a fine-mesh strainer with a large piece of cheesecloth, and set it over a bowl to collect any liquid that drains off.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt with sea salt and stir well.
Transfer the yogurt mixture into the cheesecloth-lined strainer. Gather the corners of the cheesecloth and twist it into a tight bundle, securing it with a clip or a piece of string.
Place the strainer and bowl into the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, or up to 48 hours, to allow the yogurt to thicken and turn into labneh as the liquid drains out.
Once thickened, unwrap the labneh from the cheesecloth and transfer it to a serving dish.
Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the labneh.
Sprinkle the zaatar and crushed red pepper flakes over the top.
Slice the fresh mint leaves into thin strips and sprinkle them over the labneh as a garnish.
Serve the heart-healthy labneh with whole-grain pita, fresh vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches. Enjoy!
Calories |
583 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 29.1 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 4.8 g | 24% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 17 mg | 6% | |
| Sodium | 2494 mg | 108% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 21.8 g | 8% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.9 g | 3% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.5 g | ||
| Protein | 57.1 g | 114% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 508 mg | 39% | |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% | |
| Potassium | 820 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.