Good morning!

Last week was super exciting because the folks over at Chobani sent me some free yogurt in the mail!  I was pumped for the refrigerated box that arrived with two 32 ounce containers in it for me to sample.  I am a huge fan of Chobani yogurt (it’s on my grocery list week after week!) as well as free stuff, so… score!

2% Plain
With its creamy texture, this plain low-fat yogurt is ideal for using in your favorite recipes in place of sour cream, butter, creame fraiche or heavy cream.

0% Plain
Perfect for sweetening with fruit & granola or using as a substitute for sour cream, Chobani’s Plain will have you savoring its rich, tangy taste.

The containers arrived right in time for the two family parties I had this weekend.  This was the perfect timing to use the 2% for appetizers to bring along!

Tim’s Super Awesome Spinach Artichoke Dip

First up?  Tim’s Super Awesome Spinach Artichoke Dip.  I’ve mentioned this dip a few times on the blog before (it’s already on my Recipes page!), but it’s definitely a tried and true recipe because it’s quick to make and a huge party hit.  Tim’s cousin actually demanded we bring it back to their Christmas party next year!  We used the 2% Chobani in lieu of the sour cream.  As for the mayo and cream cheese, we went with the lighter versions of each.

As super awesome as this spinach artichoke dip is, I was more excited this weekend to try something new.  A new and healthy appetizer recipe.  Actually – a new, CUTE, and healthy appetizer recipe.  And what’s even better than cute and healthy?  Cute, healthy, and CHRISTMASY!

I now introduce you to…

Pita Christmas Trees!

Inspired by Betty Crocker

Ingredients

  • 4 whole wheat pita breads
  • Thin pretzel sticks
  • 1/2 cup plain Chobani Greek Yogurt —> Note:  The original recipe called for 1/2 cup fat-free sour cream, but I used the Greek Yogurt for a healthier option.  More protein, fewer calories!!
  • 1/2 cup guacamole —> Note:  Instead of buying a really expensive container pre-made at the store, I used 2 avocados and Concord Foods guacamole mix.  You could also make your own without the mix, but we were rushing around in the morning after our Friday night out.
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic-pepper blend
  • 1/4 cup very finely chopped red bell pepper

Directions

  1. Cut each pita fold into 8 wedges. Insert pretzel stick half into center of bottom of each wedge to form “tree trunk.”
  2. In small bowl, mix the Chobani yogurt, guacamole, parsley and garlic-pepper blend.
  3. Spread about 1 teaspoon of the mixture on each pita wedge.
  4. Sprinkle about 1/4 teaspoon bell pepper on each wedge or arrange to form a garland.

Aren’t those Christmas trees so adorable?  Definitely also a hit – great presentation, delish, and a better appetizer option than some of the not so healthy choices on the table.  Back when I asked you guys how you resist holiday temptations, many of you suggested bringing a healthier dish along to holiday parties so you know you have something to fall back on.  Christmas pita trees are perfect for that!

And now I’m pumped to enjoy the 0% all week long.  Last night I didn’t have time for cooking dinner, so I paired the 0% with my new Kashi Cinnamon Harvest Wheat Biscuits and blackberries too.  Yum!

Free Chobani Giveaway!!!

Interested in making the switch to Chobani for healthier cooking and a delicious snack option?  Well, one of you lucky readers could win some free yogurt!

TO ENTER:

Leave a comment a comment on this post telling me what you would use the yogurt for if you win!

Note – You can receive up to three additional entries in the giveaway by doing one of the following:

  • Subscribing to Fitness & Feta via email (just click the Sign Me Up button on the left hand side of my page)
  • Sharing this link on your Facebook / Twitter / Own Blog
  • Liking the Fitness & Feta and Chobani pages on Facebook (you have to like both!)

THE RULES:

  • The additional entries are NOT required for the giveaway, just the initial comment is.
  • However, if you choose to enter with an additional entry option, each option needs a separate comment on this post to count.  That means a max of 4 comments each!
  • I will announce the winner in Friday morning’s post, so all entries must be in by Thursday at 10pm.  Good luck!

Question of the Day:  What’s your favorite way to eat yogurt?