MealSide

Labneh

Ultra-creamy strained yogurt dip, drizzled with olive oil and herbs. The simplest and most satisfying dip.

Prep: 5 minutes (plus overnight straining). Cook: 0 minutes. Difficulty: Easy. Serves 4.

Ingredients

  • 500g thick Greek yogurt
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Olive oil for serving
  • Za'atar or dried mint for serving
  • Cheesecloth or clean thin towel

Instructions

  1. Mix yogurt with salt.
  2. Line a sieve with cheesecloth and set over a bowl.
  3. Pour yogurt into the cheesecloth. Gather edges and tie.
  4. Refrigerate for 12–24 hours. The longer you strain, the thicker it gets.
  5. Transfer thick labneh to a serving plate. Shape into a swirl.
  6. Drizzle generously with olive oil. Sprinkle with za'atar or dried mint.

Tips for Helpers

  • 24 hours of straining gives cream cheese consistency.
  • 12 hours gives a thicker yogurt consistency.
  • Use the strained whey in smoothies or bread baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Any full-fat plain yogurt works.
  • Use paper towels in a sieve if you do not have cheesecloth.

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