What is the best yogurt for parfaits?

I prefer this parfait recipe with creamy Greek yogurt as I love the thick texture, and extra staying power from the protein, but you can really use regular yogurt or even your favorite dairy-free yogurt alternative. Use leftover yogurt for veggie dip ! I generally use plain Greek yogurt as I prefer to add in the sweetness myself, but if you prefer flavored yogurt, use what you prefer.

Can I serve parfaits for dessert?

Absolutely, but you'll want to switch things up a bit so it gives dessert vibes and not breakfast vibes! Use a thick and high-quality vanilla yogurt or turn it into a total dessert by using ice cream. Top with berries, whipped cream or Cool Whip, and crushed graham cracker or chocolate chip granola for crunch.

Greek Yogurt Parfait - Quick, Healthy & High-Protein

Description

These HEALTHY Greek yogurt parfaits are a quick and nutritious breakfast (30 g of protein and 15 g fiber!) that is ready in minutes.

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 Tbsp. chia seeds
liquid of choice (milk, milk alternative, water)
3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
3/4 cup fresh berries
1/3 cup granola
drizzle of honey (optional)

Instructions

Soak chia seeds. Add chia seeds to a bowl and pour milk over the top. Stir so that all the seeds are touching liquid and let sit together for about 10 minutes, or until most of the liquid has been soaked up by the seeds.
Layer parfait: a dollop of Greek yogurt, chia seeds, fruit and repeat. Top with granola and a drizzle of honey if desired.

Notes

Nutrition: Nutrition facts are an estimate and will vary depending on what type of yogurt, fruit, and granola you use.
Storage: You can make the fruit and yogurt parfait with granola up to a day ahead or the night before. Don’t add the granola until right before serving, or you’ll end up with soggy granola.
Chia: The chia seeds are a more recent addition to my own personal breakfast yogurt parfaits, and while they are completely optional (obviously!), I love how easy it is to add nutrition INTO this meal by adding them (Read more about my nutrition philosophy here). Convenient and easy, they are a simple way to add in extra protein, fiber, and a great source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids.
Ingredient notes: Frozen berries also work well, and I use them during the winter months. Once the chia seeds have soaked for 5-10 minutes, I’ll add frozen berries to the mix and let them thaw. Use your favorite granola or cereal. I love a chocolate chip granola from Purely Elizabeth, but I will also often use my favorite protein cereal from Seven Sundays. The granola or cereal is great for added texture and crunch!
Prep ahead: You can also bulk-prep the soaked chia seeds. Put them in a jar and add plenty of liquid (water, almond milk, milk), stir in chia seeds, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to leave enough room for the seeds to expand! Then scoop them out when you’re ready to make your breakfast.
Special tools: Chia seeds are generally easy to find at your grocery store or you can get them online. If you’d like to prep these ahead, grab these glass meal prep jars.
DIY Parfaits: Serve up a yogurt parfait bar by putting out a variety of yogurts, along with a variety of toppings, and let everyone make their own.