Savory Yogurt Toppings: 4 Ideas for Breaking the Fruit & Granola Routine

Most mornings when I’m frantically scouring through the fridge and cursing my lack of night-before lunch preparedness, I end up grabbing a single-serve Greek yogurt, throwing a handful of granola in a ziplock, and snagging a ripe banana from the fruit vendor outside my work.

As much as I love this little routine, I hate to admit it, but I’m a little fresh fruit and granola’d out.

Luckily, this fruit-and-granola routine is a pretty satisfying lunch packed with protein and fiber. It’s refreshing and easy to put together, not to mention versatile. If I’m busy, I can eat it politely at my desk, but if I have a free chunk of time it’s also easy to tote a few blocks for an al fresco lunch in the park.

But the first tastes of fall in New York (I’m actively ignoring those unspeakable 90 degree days last week, ok?) are making me crave something a little less sweet and a little more savory.

With a few savory offerings creeping onto the menu at yogurt shops lately — both artisanal yogurt type places as well as fro-yo shacks — my interest is piqued. Of course, I know about all sorts of ways to use yogurt in recipes, but what about when it’s the main feature? What are some savory toppings that I can put on yogurt that aren’t totally wacky?

After brainstorming and scouring recipes for inspiration, here are a few suggestions:

• Deconstructed Tzatziki: Pair cucumbers, fresh dill, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of coarse salt with pita chips on the side.
  
• Sweet + Spicy Southwest: Top yogurt with diced up mango or even a pre-made mango salsa, avocado, cilantro, and lime juice.
  
• Caprese Inspired: Toss together the last of summer’s super sweet ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze.
  
• Smoke and Spice: Pile on chickpeas, roasted red peppers, harissa, a sprinkle of curry powder.

Have you tried incorporating any savory topping ideas into your yogurt? Let us know!

(Image: Emma Christensen)