By Kelly Bogard

When I think summer, I think hot. I think everyone in Texas does. We can get some pretty scorching temperatures here in Central Texas, but they seem to be even worse out to the west of us. Although we haven’t seen the mercury hit 100-plus yet, it is time to start preparing.

One way we beat the heat is by enjoying cool, refreshing treats. June is National Dairy Month. Can you think of some refreshing treats made with dairy? I sure can. Of course, most of the things that come to mind are sweet. Ice cream and yogurt top my summer must haves list.

For Yogurt Berry Parfaits, you will need… Yogurt Berry Parfait
2 cups plain yogurt
4 tbsp. honey, divided
1 ½ tsp. vanilla
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
½ cup granola with nuts

The key to this recipe is to use whatever makes your heart happy. You start with a blank canvas, like plain yogurt, and let your imagination go. I like to use things that are grown right here in Texas, so I chose to use local honey, strawberries and granola that has Texas pecans in it.

First things, first. Place the chopped strawberries in a small pan over medium-low heat with 2 tablespoons of honey. Stir constantly to prevent burning.
Yogurt Berry Parfait

Once the berries start to break down and create juice, remove them from heat and set aside to cool.
Yogurt Berry Parfait

While your berries are cooling, mix together the yogurt, remaining honey and vanilla.
Yogurt Berry Parfait

Now that those to components are combined, you are ready to assemble. Start with the yogurt, then top with a spoon or two of strawberries and then granola. Repeat the layers and sprinkle the top with a bit of granola.
Yogurt Berry Parfait

This yogurt is a great way to beat the summer heat without breaking a sweat. I bet it would be good made ahead of time and chilled for optimal coolness. The hot days are coming, and the best we can do is be prepared. From all of us at Texas Table Top, enjoy!

[print_this]

[box]

Recipe: Yogurt Berry Parfaits

Summary: Creamy, cold summer treat to beat the heat

Ingredients

Yogurt Berry Parfait

  • 2 cups plain yogurt
  • 4 tbsp. honey, divided
  • 1 ½ tsp. vanilla
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
  • ½ cup granola with nuts

Instructions

  • Combine strawberries and 2 tablespoons honey in a small sauce pan. Heat over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes or until berries start to break down. Set aside to cool.
  • Mix yogurt, 2 tablespoons honey and vanilla in a small bowl.
  • To assemble, layer yogurt, then strawberries and granola. Repeat layers and top with granola.

Prep time (duration): 0 hour(s), 10 minutes

Number of servings (yield): 2-4

[/box]

[/print_this]